Antverpia Totius Inferiorisæ Primaria Urbs

A rare and finely engraved prospect of Antwerp viewed from the Scheldt, first published by Vrients in 1610, under a privilege issued by Albert and Isabella, Archduke and Archduchess of Austria, governors of the Austrian Netherlands. The plates later came into the hands of the Visscher family, and were reprinted by Claes Jansz. Visscher the younger, presumably Nicolaas Visscher I. This is, apparently, one of three recorded examples with the Visscher imprint. The text outside the lower border comprises a history and description of Antwerp, in Dutch, French and Latin.

Large engraved panorama, on 4 sheets joined, including the woodcut running title in 6 sections pasted above, 3 panels of descriptive letterpress text composed of 6 half-sheets pasted outside the lower border, contemporary wash colouring; previously laid on canvas, some restoration with manuscript reinstatement and retouching, relaid on a modern board backing, with stretchers, the title wrongly reassembled after restoration, should be: "Antverpia totius Inferioris Germaniæ nobilissima et ducatus Brabantiæ primaria urbs". Overall dimensions: 77.5 x 240 cm. Framed and glazed.

Holstein Dutch Engravings XLIX, 61 (II).