Herrenberg – 17th-Century German City Engraving – Matthäus Merian

Matthäus Merian the Elder (1593–1650) was a Swiss-born engraver and publisher who spent much of his career in Germany. He is best known for his monumental Topographia Germaniae series (21 volumes), which documented cities, towns, and landscapes throughout the Holy Roman Empire with remarkable detail and accuracy. The series was so popular that it continued to be reissued well into later centuries.

The present engraving, depicting Herrenberg in Baden-Württemberg, was printed on laid paper and published in Topographia Sueviae—one of the volumes in the Topographia Germaniae series written by Martin Zeiler and illustrated by Merian. Based on the strength of the impression and the paper characteristics, this example is an original 17th-century printing rather than a later reissue.

The impression is in good condition with no major damage. It has been trimmed just outside the platemark. The verso shows two small tape remnants at the upper corners from previous mounting, and faint glue marks are visible on the front. The paper shows light toning and scattered foxing, typical for its age.

Print Details
• Size: 6.5 × 4 in
• Paper: Laid paper with a watermark
• Condition: Good — strong impression; trimmed outside platemark; minor foxing and toning; tape marks on top corners of verso, faint glue marks visible on the front; unframed

Disclaimer
I have conducted thorough research to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of this piece to the best of my ability. However, it is sold as is, with no guarantees or warranties regarding its provenance or historical attribution.