Bilder Sebastian Münster (1488–1552) – Italian Fauna and Ox-Drags (Von Italia, Von den Italienischen-Stieren oder Ochsenzugen) – Woodcut with Letterpress Text (Circa 1544–1568)

Beskrivning

This print is a folio page from a German edition of the major geographical work, the Cosmographia. The page, titled Von Italia (About Italy) in the running header, provides descriptive text and two distinct woodcuts illustrating aspects of the Italian peninsula. The first woodcut, located in the middle of the page, depicts a stylized bird (a crane or stork) as an example of the regional fauna. The second, larger woodcut, titled Von den Italienischen-Stieren oder Ochsenzugen (About Italian Bulls or Ox-Drags), illustrates a lively scene of men leading or working with oxen in a dynamic landscape, portraying a specific local custom, agricultural practice, or festival involving cattle.

Sebastian Münster was a German cartographer, cosmographer, and professor at the University of Basel. His magnum opus, the Cosmographia (first published 1544), was the first comprehensive, richly illustrated geographical work in the German language. It became one of the most widely reprinted books of the 16th century, using woodcuts to illustrate cities, costumes, customs, and natural history from across the known world.

Artist or Maker: Sebastian Münster

Dimensions: Approximately 33 × 20 cm

Medium: Woodcut with letterpress text on laid paper

Date: Circa 1544–1568

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.