Very decorative and rare portrait of Sebastian Münster, engraved by Theodor de Bry (indicated by the monogram letter B visible on the pillar to the right) and published by Jean Jacques Boissard in the book "Icones Virorum Illustrium", Frankfurt 1597.

Münster was born at Ingelheim near Mainz, the son of Andreas Munster. He completed his studies at the Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen in 1518. He was appointed to the University of Basel in 1527. As Professor of Hebrew, he edited the Hebrew Bible, accompanied by a Latin translation.

His work, the Cosmographia from 1544 was the earliest German description of the world. It had numerous editions in different languages including Latin, French, Italian, English, and even Czech. The last German edition was published in 1628, long after his death. The Cosmographia was one of the most successful and popular books of the 16th century. It passed through 24 editions in 100 years. This success was due to the fascinating woodcuts (some by Hans Holbein the Younger, Urs Graf, Hans Rudolph Manuel Deutsch, and David Kandel). It was most important in reviving geography in 16th century Europe.

Author:                 Theodor de Bry (1528-1593)

Sheet size:            16,7 x 12,7 cm
Year:                       1597
Technique:           copper engraving

Condition:
Very good condition.

This is an original antique map published in 1597 and NOT a modern copy or reprint

On your request I will provide a Certificate of Authenticity

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