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1638 Matthaus Merian
$ 450.00
Description

Decorative birdseye view of Stockholm from across the harbor, from Merian's Neuwe Archontologia Cosmica, published in 1638.

Shows buildings, churches, bridges, ships, docks, fortified walls of the city, and the surrounding area. The coat of arms of the country, as well as the name of the city, float above the city and are framed by clouds.

During this period, Sweden was becoming one of the leading powers of Europe, and this is reflected in the expansion and construction of the city. This view preserves Stockholm before significant expansion. The city is mostly limited to the central island of the Stockholm archipelago, though some houses are built on surrounding islands and the mainland. This map shows part of Tre Kronor castle on the left-hand side. This building, along with much of Sweden's archives, was burnt down in 1697.

Matthaus Merian Biography

Mathaus Merian (1593-1650) was the father of engraver Matthäus the Younger, and of the painter, engraver, and naturalist Maria Sibylla Merian. He was born in Basel, Switzerland and trained in engraving in Zurich. After a time in Nancy, Paris and Strasbourg, he settled in Frankfurt. While there, he worked for Johann Theodor de Bry, the publisher and son of the travel writer. In 1617, he married Maria Magdalena de Bry, Johann Theodor’s daughter. In 1623, Merian took over the de Bry publishing house upon the death of his father-in-law. Merian’s best known works are detailed town views which, due to their accuracy and artistry, form a valuable record of European urban life in the first half of the sixteenth century