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 lovely bird's-eye view focuses on the ancient town of Swiebodzin. As noted in the descriptive text on verso, the town "is almost never given consideration by chroniclers," despite its location at the crux of two trade routes. Under Habsburg rule at the time of publication, the town was known for manufacturing beer and exporting cloth. The view centers on the Rathaus and shows many cranes dispersed throughout the town. A key at right identifies 10 sites of interest, including an armory and pleasure garden. The view is further decorated by three coats of arms and a blank cartouche. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 406.

Condition: B+

On watermarked paper with light toning, minor scattered foxing, and a printer's crease at top right.