118 Sebastian Münster (1488–1552) – View of Besançon (Bisantz) – Woodcut from Cosmographia – 16th Century (c. 1550)
This richly detailed woodcut presents a panoramic bird’s-eye view of Besançon (Bisantz), a historic fortified city in eastern France. Shown nestled in the loop of the Doubs River and surrounded by vineyards, hills, and forests, the city is represented with its intricate walls, bridges, and medieval architecture. Each district, street, and major landmark is labeled in Gothic script, while coats of arms appear above the city. This double-page spread (pages 334–335) was published in Sebastian Münster’s influential Cosmographia, the most important German-language description of the world in the Renaissance era.
Sebastian Münster’s Cosmographia, first published in 1544 and reissued in multiple editions through the late 16th century, was among the first works to combine modern cartographic knowledge with city views, history, and ethnographic commentary. Its woodcuts offered early modern Europeans a visual gateway to the geography of the known world.
Artist or Maker: Sebastian Münster
Title: Warhafftige abcontrafectung der fürtrefflichen vnd berümpen Statt Bisantz
Dimensions: 31 cm x 38.5 cm
Medium: Woodcut on laid paper
Date: c. 1550
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 300 - 500 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
Dahlströms Rare Prints
Harju maakond, Tallinn
Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415
Estland
+46 70 359 75 85
info@dahlstromsfineart.se
© Software Copyright 2025 Skeleton. All rights reserved.