Birds-Eye Map of Palermo by Braun & Hogenberg, 1620

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Palermo – 1620 braun & hogenberg bird’s-eye map of palermo, sicily this beautifully detailed bird’s-eye view of palermo, sicily, was … Read more Palermo – 1620 braun & hogenberg bird’s-eye map of palermo, sicily this beautifully detailed bird’s-eye view of palermo, sicily, was created by georg braun and frans hogenberg around 1620 and published in civitates orbis terrarum, volume iv. This work, a monumental city atlas of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, provided the most comprehensive depiction of the world's major cities at the time. With six volumes published between 1572 and 1617, the series included 531 town and city views on 363 plates, offering viewers a detailed and artistic representation of urban life without the necessity of travel. This striking plan presents palermo from a northeastern perspective, showing its fortified medieval city layout, bustling harbor, and the surrounding cultivated countryside. The intricate detailing reflects the city's prominence as a major port and cultural center in the mediterranean during this period. The prominent 'palazzo dei normanni', or palace of the norman kings, stands at the top of the image, emphasizing its historical significance as the oldest royal residence in europe. The port, located at the bottom right, is filled with large galleys, a testament to palermo's importance in maritime trade and military defense. A key feature of this map is the numbered legend at the bottom, identifying 162 locations within the city, from religious institutions and fortifications to public squares and significant landmarks. The plate is highly decorative, featuring elegant strapwork cartouches, a detailed compass rose, and meticulously illustrated ships sailing in the mediterranean. The map is further enhanced by vibrant hand-coloring, accentuating the city's red-roofed buildings, green agricultural areas, and the deep blue of the harbor waters. Beyond its geographic detail, 'civitates orbis terrarum' aimed to capture the economic, cultural, and social essence of each city. Braun’s accompanying texts provided s of trade, governance, and local customs, creating an invaluable historical record of urban life in the early modern period. The french text on the verso of this edition provides additional context and historical notes. This map is referenced in fussel, pages 338, 340-341. Condition: very good. A crisp, well-preserved impression on watermarked paper. The map has undergone professional restoration, including minor repairs to a centerfold separation near the center of the image and a large chip in the blank margin at the top left. These restorations do not affect the printed area, ensuring the map remains visually striking and historically valuable. Framing advice: to best showcase this remarkable historical piece, it is recommended to frame it using acid-free, museum-grade materials to protect the delicate paper. Uv-protective glass or acrylic will prevent fading of the hand-applied colors. A classic dark wood or gold-leaf frame will complement its antique aesthetic, while a parchment-colored mat will enhance its fine detailing. Conservation mounting should be used to ensure the map remains undamaged by adhesives or pressure, preserving its value for future generations. This exquisite map is a must-have for collectors of antique cartography, mediterranean history enthusiasts, and those fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of sicily and its capital, palermo. See less