1737 – Homann Heirs – Lustlager von Zeithain

Title:                      “Das Königliche Haupt quartier oder Hoff Lager in Grund Risse nach sinen Abtheilungen vorgestellt.”
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Description:
Very rare and unusual copper engraved map of the Zeithain military camp from 1730 (known as Lustlager von Zeithain). It was a grandiose military parade and diplomatic celebration organized by Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland.
The central section shows the topographical plan of the camp, with the tents arranged neatly in squares (indicated by Roman numerals such as IV, V, VI) and the positions of the cavalry and infantry.
At the top and bottom are various perspective views showing: The royal and general headquarters (e.g. Count Wackerbarth’s headquarters). Logistical facilities such as bread ovens and slaughterhouses. The pontoon bridge over the Elbe.
At the sides and at the bottom are detailed lists (in German) of the regiments, commanders and explanations of the various sections of the camp.
The Great Campement near Mühlberg, also called the pleasure camp of Zeithain, was a grandiose troop review by Augustus the Strong, combined with a display of royal splendor, which took place from June 1st to June 26, 1730, not far from the towns of Riesa and Großenhain, between the villages of Zeithain, Glaubitz, Wülknitz and Streumen, Germany. This event was not only a demonstration of military strength with around 27,000 soldiers, but also one of the greatest baroque spectacles of the time, designed to impress the European powers. (including the King of Prussia, Frederick William I and 48 European princes). Widely considered the “military spectacle of the century,” it featured grand feasts, massive fireworks, and the presentation of a legendary 23-foot-long Dresden Stollen cake.

The engraving comes from Homann Heirs atlas “Atlas Novus Terrarum Orbis Imperia Regna et Status Exactis Tabulis Geographice Demonstrans…”, published in Nuremberg, 1737.

Publishing house:              Homann Heirs (1731-1848)
Sheet size:                              58,4 x 51,2 cm
Year:                                         1737
Technique:                             copper engraving

Condition:
Very good condition, contemporary hand coloring, watermarked paper.

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This is an original antique map published in 1737 and NOT a modern copy or reprint

On your request I will provide a Certificate of Authenticity