Subject: Komarno, Slovakia
Period: 1595 (dated)
Publication: Civitates Orbis Terrarum, Vol. V
Color: Hand Color
Size:
19.1 x 14.8 inches
48.5 x 37.6 cm
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.
Interesting sheet with two scenes on the Danube river at the location of present day Komarno. Each scene depicts a battle with various military forces. There are gunboats, cannons within the fortified city, infantry and mounted knights. French text on verso, published between 1610-45.
References: Fussel, p. 399; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #2106.
Condition: B+
A sharp impression with full contemporary color on a sheet with a horn watermark. There is light toning along the centerfold with a centerfold separation expertly repaired on verso.