Italy, Naples, Pozzuoli, Ischia Braun & Hogenberg, 1580, Nullus in orbe locus Baiis praelucet amoenis.

A fascinating view of Pozzuoli and the Gulf of Baia with Ischia, in the background within a very rich ornamental motif with cornucopias, fruit, cherubs, flowers and ribbons. Made by Braun & Hogenberg. 1580, Latin edition of ´Civitates orbis terrarum´.

On the left and on the right, at the bottom, a legend lists of the most significant places.

"Their travels led Georg Hoefnagel and his companion Ortelius (left, on a knoll) to the Gulf of Baia. Complementing the two engravings in volume II, this view is seen from an elevated point in the east and shows Pozzuoli in the foreground (T) together with the islands of Procida (C) and Ischia (D), the castle of Baia (F-G), the mountain with the Grotto of the Camaean Sybil (O), Lake Averno (P) and the temple of Jupiter (Y), flanked by curving cornucopias overflowing with the abundant gifts of nature in this climatically blessed region. The accompanying texts draw upon a knowledge of the literature of classical antiquity, for instance the remark that Cape Misenum (B) is named after Misenus, Aeneas's trumpeter, who is buried there, or the reference to natural histories, such as that of the Trituli sweat baths (L). This plate is unique in the city atlas because of its colourfulness. At the same time it is an important example of creative talents of the artist, Hoefnagel, who, in collaboration with his travelling companion Ortelius, who is again lavishly praised in the inset text (centre), augments his observations of nature with his knowledge of the classics and natural history". (Taschen)
The work is included in the Civitates Orbis Terrarum, the first atlas devoted exclusively to plans and views of the world's major cities. Printed in six volumes between 1572 and 1617 it was so successful and widespread that several editions translated into Latin, German and French were printed.

Ref:Van der Krogt 4, #3459; Fauser, #11185; Taschen, Br. Hog., p.265.

Excellent condition. Text in Latin. Original coloring.

Image 33x49cm, page 40x53cm