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.

Dramatic view of the city of Tunis illustrating the Turkish siege of 1574. The city, which had been occupied by the Spanish since 1535, is protected by two forts and an inner harbor labeled Stagnum. The Turkish fleet of oared ships fills the outer harbor and skirmishes are depicted throughout the view. This view was first published in 1575, thus providing its European audience with a contemporary view of this important event. German text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 196-98.

Condition: A

A dark impression on watermarked paper with light printer's ink residue, minor toning along the centerfold, and marginal soiling.