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 superb bird's-eye view shows the city of Besancon from the west. The fortified city is partially surrounded by the Doubs River. Costumed figures fill the foreground and four coats of arms flank the view, including the city's arms at top right. French text on verso.

References: Fussel, p. 153.

Condition: B+

A dark impression with light soiling and foxing, and a tiny hole along the centerfold near the top of the image.