Copper engraving, mm 340x480, contemporary hand color. Fascinating bird's-eye view, that shows clearly Venice’s architectural landmark. The surrounding lagoon is animated with a great variety of sailing vessels. At bottom center is a procession of the doge and dignitaries. The vignette is flanked on both sides by 153 entries listing palaces, churches, offices, etc. From “Civitates Orbis Terrarum”, milestone of illustrated books, compiled and written by George Braun, Canon of Cologne Cathedral. Braun gathered together vast amounts of information and draft plans to produce over 500 city views/maps published in six parts between 1572 and 1617. Most of these engravings were made by Simon Novellanus and Frans Hogenberg, many after drawings by Joris Hoefnagel. Very good example.