Braun & Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum or "Cities of the World" was published between 1572 and 1617. Within the six volumes, 531 towns and cities were depicted on 363 plates, providing the reader with the pleasures of travel without the attendant discomforts. Braun wrote in the preface to the third book, "What could be more pleasant than, in one's own home far from all danger, to gaze in these books at the universal form of the earth . . . adorned with the splendor of cities and fortresses and, by looking at pictures and reading the texts accompanying them, to acquire knowledge which could scarcely be had but by long and difficult journeys?" Braun and Hogenberg incorporated an astonishing wealth of information into each scene beyond the city layout and important buildings. The plates provide an impression of the economy and prominent occupations, and illustrate local costumes, manners and customs.

This sheet contains four lovely bird's-eye views. The first is of Wissembourg, France, with the abbey church of Saints-Pierre-et-Paul dominating the fortified city. The second view shows Rouffach, France, with the Isenbourg castle looming over the city. The third view depicts Colmar, France, with the Gothic church of St. Martin near the center. The final view is of Baden in Aargau, Switzerland, known for its sulfur springs. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 172-73.

Condition: B+

Old color with a few printer's creases at top left, an abrasion to the right of centerfold, and faint toning along the centerfold.