Books

Last German edition of Münster's famous Cosmagraphia. Compared to previous editions, it has been enriched with about 200 woodcuts in the text. In addition, 25 of the maps have been redrawn and adapted to the current state of knowledge. Description: Bound in contemporary pigskin over wooden boards, decorated with roll-tooled borders; 2 brass clasps and catch-plates; spine with 7 raised bands. Folio: 37 × 23 cm (sheet size); [12]ll., 52ll. (maps), 1752pp. (i.e. 1748). With 1 engraved title-page (by M. Merian), 26 double-page maps (before text), 73 double-page maps and plans in the text section (1 fold-out) and more than 1400 woodcut illustrations in text. Ref.: Burmeister 88; VD17 23:230709C Condition: Binding slightly rubbed, stained and soiled, with a small tear at the headband. Endpapers renewed, front pastedown with adhesive residue of old bookplate. Inner hinges reinforced. Contents throughout somewhat browned with age. Throughout somewhat spotted and in places slightly…

Cosmographia is a comprehensive and lavishly illustrated description of the world and its regions, written by Sebastian Münster. First published in 1544, it helped popularize geographical and scientific knowledge during the Renaissance. This work includes maps and detailed descriptions of various places, peoples, and customs.