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 panoramic view shows the city of Polna from the southwest, with the directions to Vienna and Prague identified on the view (letters B and C). Sitting on the border between the historic regions of Moravia and Bohemia, the castle on the left is noted as lying in Bohemia with the majority of the city falling in Moravia. Two costumed figures adorn the foreground. Latin text on verso, published in 1618.

References: Fussel, p. 465; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #3433.

Condition: B+

A nice impression with light toning along the centerfold, marginal soiling, some dampstains along the edges of the sheet, and a short centerfold separation confined to the top margin.