Bilder Sebastian Münster (1488–1552) – View of Malta and Gozo – Woodcut (1550)

Beskrivning

Melita. This woodcut presents a geographical map of the islands of Malta and Gozo, situated in the Mediterranean Sea. The composition illustrates the rugged coastlines of the islands, with significant landmarks such as the main port of Malta and smaller neighboring isles clearly defined. The surrounding waters, labeled Mare Mediterraneum and Mare Aphricum, feature a stylized sailing vessel to the left of the landmass. Above and below the map, dense blocks of German text in Fraktur script provide a historical and descriptive account of the region, including the title Beschreibung der Insel Malta. This work is a significant geographical plate from the Cosmographia, published in Basel by Heinrich Petri. This publication was the earliest German language description of the world and remained a fundamental geographical reference for decades.

Sebastian Münster was a German cartographer, cosmographer, and Christian Hebraist who served as a professor at the University of Basel. He is best known for his monumental work, the Cosmographia, which combined geographical maps with historical accounts and detailed regional views based on reports from local correspondents. Münster was a central figure in the development of Renaissance cartography, moving away from purely theological maps toward more empirical and observational representations of the world. His work was highly influential due to its use of high quality woodcut illustrations and its broad accessibility in multiple languages, significantly shaping the European understanding of global geography.

Artist or Maker: Sebastian Münster.

Dimensions: Approximately 36 cm x 21 cm.

Medium: Woodcut.

Date: 1550.

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.