Nice large title page from "Civitates Orbis Terrarum Liber primus" by Braun & Hogenberg.

In folio, verso blank.

The scene highlights the origins of civilizations, the urban order and the human forces that have shaped the construction of cities and society. The figure on the left is Athena, identified by a helmet, a spear, a shield and his attribute an owl. Athena is the goddess of wisdom and reason. She represents here order, rational thought, the defense of the city and the invention of urban arts. On the base, the inscription "Architect. Rudim" (“Origins of the architecture”).The man on the right is Hercule. He wears the lion’s skin the club, a parchment or a primitive tool. With the inscription on the base "Opidor Auctor" ("Creator of cities"). It symbolizes the civilizing force, the domestication of the wild world, the role of heroes in the evolution of humanity. The three small scenes at the bottom summarize the evolution of humanity according to a humanist vision of the Renaissance: "Architect. Rudim" in lower left : the invention of primitive architecture represented by men building a shelter. In the center, "Consoc. Humani Gen Origo": Men come together to form communities, the birth of human society. In right side, "Domicil. Tyrocin", translation "Place of learning", "residence of apprentices". The wording refers to the place where apprentices live or begin their training. The stage is built like a triumphal arch, a monumental entrance of knowledge, a humanist space celebrating the construction of urban civilization.

This engraving is a humanist allegory of the City, the forces that create it, and the geographical knowledge that allows to represent the world.

Size of the page : 40 x 25,5 cm / 15,7 x 9,8 inches

Edition : Amsterdam, c. 1572, 16th century.

Condition : good condition, right corner redone, in colors.

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A Certification of Authenticity can be issued on request.

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Due to the age an type of paper, some imperfections are to be expected. Please examine the images provided carefully, and if you have any questions please ask and we will be happy to help you.