Map of Alsace

Daniel Specklin Map of Alsace, 1576 Rare. 19th-century printing from the original plates. The matrices were later destroyed by war. This is a major map in Alsatian history and can be considered the first large map printed in isolation. Large engraved map on 16 assembled sheets. Dimension at the plate mark: 38.2 X 114.3 cm Dimension of the assembled sheets: 41.2 x 115.5 cm The assembly work with the sheets glued on vellum paper is of good quality. Overall good condition, very fine inking making all details clearly legible. The large map of Alsace created in 1576 is the first detailed representation of the region. Commissioned by the Habsburgs during the time of the Holy Roman Empire. It was made to better understand and control a fragmented and strategic territory. Created with still empirical methods, it offers a comprehensive view of Alsace. Its uniqueness lies in the richness of information (cities, villages, castles) as well as its still artistic aspect, with stylized representations inherited from the Middle Ages. It serves both as a political tool and a valuable testimony to the organization of the Alsatian territory in the 16th century. Daniel Specklin (1536, Strasbourg – 1589, Strasbourg), a renowned architect and military engineer, was notably in charge of the fortifications of Strasbourg and distinguished himself by his technical and cartographic works.