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 two lovely bird's-eye views. The first is of Macon, France showing the fortified town along the left bank of the Saone River. The Saint-Laurent bridge is prominently depicted leading to the cathedral Vieux Saint-Vincent. The second view shows the fortified Chalon-Sur-Saone. The abbey of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Vincent cathedral are prominently depicted. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 274-276.

Condition: A

A sharp impression with a hint of toning along the centerfold at bottom and light soiling in the blank margins.