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.

The top view shows the city of Marchena among rolling hills, with its two towers, San Miguel and Santa Maria, still under construction. In the foreground two blacksmiths work on their tools. The bottom view shows Osuna, dominated by the Santa Maria de la Asuncion. In the foreground several farmers are busy threshing. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 271.

Condition: B+

Light toning and soiling on watermarked paper with one tiny hole along the centerfold. The bottom right corner of the sheet has been trimmed, well away from the image.