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 handsome bird's-eye view depicts the town of Bergen, the only Norwegian city depicted in Braun & Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum. The view was created by Hieronymus Scholeus. The city of Bergen was founded in 1070 and had become one of the four most important trading posts to the German Hanseatic merchants by the 16th century. A legend identifies over 20 locations in the view, including the fortress of Bergenhus (A) and St. Mary's Church (K). A gallows appears to the left of the city with a ladder leaning against it. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 316-17; Ginsberg #24.10.

Condition: B+

A nice impression with a few small spots in the image, marginal soiling, and professional repairs to several separations along the centerfold.