Sebastian Münster (1489–1552) - Cosmographia Universalis...

This original sheet is a precious Renaissance page taken from the 1550 Latin edition of Sebastian Münster's Cosmographia universalis, printed in Basel by the publisher Heinrich Petri and part of Liber III dedicated to Germany. The text and its related illustrative apparatus offer a deep historical-geographical description of northern Switzerland and its main institutions. The narrative opens on the front with an imposing chronological list titled Abbates Sangallenfes, documenting the rulers and abbots of the famous Abbey of St. Gall from the 8th century to the 16th century (including Saint Otmar and the subsequent prelates), describing the textile economy, trade, and the development of the surrounding territory. Turning the page, attention shifts to the ancient village of Zurzach (Forum Tiberii, seu Zvrzachivm, Cap. LXXX) and the renowned city of Sciaffusa (Schafhavsia, Cap. LXXXI), analyzed in its etymology and in its fortunate position along the Rhine. The text describes the splendor of its vineyards and the industriousness of its inhabitants, introducing one of the most spectacular natural woodcuts of the volume: the depiction of the majestic Rhine Falls (Cataracta Rheni), described by Münster with astonishment at the impetuous power of the water crashing among the rocks, raising a perpetual cloud of foam and steam, hindering navigation but offering a scenery of extraordinary beauty. Dimensions 30 x 20 cm Will be shipped by courier

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