Contrafactur der Vornebster Stät der Welt

The Cologne-based theologian Georg Braun (1541–1622) and the Flemish copperplate engraver Franz Hogenberg (1535–1590) already published the six-volume work Civitatis Orbis Terrarum two generations before Matthäus Merian. Featuring over 600 cityscapes and maps, it was trendsetting and functioned as a template and rich source for other works. There is now a selection of 90 realistic depictions on 56 double-pages from this great collection. Graphics of all sizes depicting cities in Europe, Africa, Asia, and America originated between 1574 and 1618.

Successful Duo

The theologian, canon, and dean from Cologne, Georg Braun (1541–1622) undertook only a few journeys himself as the author and publisher of the Civitatis Orbis Terrarum. Instead, he was able to obtain many examples through his numerous contacts, which could then be executed by the copperplate engraver and etcher Franz Hogenberg (1535–1590). In addition to the lavishly designed and richly colored prints, the information about the geographical location, historical development, and economic situation of all the cities were contained in accompanying texts written by Braun in an entertaining and informative manner.

Evidence of Urban Development

These cityscapes and maps are of tremendous importance today for our knowledge of medieval city structures. They expand our knowledge of the cities and their destruction in the 30 Years’ War and their subsequent renovation in the Baroque style. Furthermore, the extremely detailed depictions contain much additional information with their coats of arms and the small genre scenes showing the lives of the farmers and fishermen. The modern beholder thus receives an inside look into local customs and learns contemporary fashions.