Calais

Article description

Original antique woodcut map of Calais. Published by Henricus Petri., Basel, 1620. Sheet: 127 by 157mm (5 by 6¼ inches).. A fine decorative example of antique cartography by Sebastian Münster, rich in period detail and historical significance. Sebastian Münster (1488–1552) was a German cartographer, cosmographer, and Hebraist who taught at the University of Basel. His monumental Cosmographia, first published in 1544, was the first comprehensive world description in the German language and became one of the most popular books of the sixteenth century — appearing in over forty editions across six languages during the following century. The Cosmographia combined geography, history, natural history, and ethnography, illustrated with woodcut maps and city views engraved by skilled craftsmen including Hans Holbein the Younger. Münster's maps, with their characteristic woodcut style, bold typography, and decorative sea creatures, are highly prized by collectors of early printed books and antique maps. This seventeenth century woodcut map depicts Calais with the characteristic style of Sebastian Münster's publication. The woodcut technique, with its bold lines and vigorous topographical detail, captures the geographical knowledge of the period. Dimensions: 127 by 157mm (5 by 6¼ inches).. In good condition for its age (published 1620). Colours well preserved. Some age-toning and minor imperfections consistent with a document of this antiquity. A condition report is available on request.

Sebastian Münster – Calais · Original Antique Woodcut · Henricus Petri. · Basel 1620