Description
Ulm gegen Mitternacht – Panoramic Landscape – 17th-Century German CityEngraving – Matthäus Merian
Matthäus Merian the Elder (1593–1650) was a Swiss-bornengraver and publisher who spent much of his career in Germany. He is bestknown for his monumental Topographia Germaniae series (21 volumes),which documented cities, towns, and landscapes throughout the Holy Roman Empirewith remarkable detail and accuracy. The series was so popular that itcontinued to be reissued well into later centuries.
The present engraving, depicting a night scene of Ulm, Baden-Württemberg,was printed on laid paper and published in Topographia Sueviae —one ofthe volumes in the Topographia Germaniae series written by Martin Zeilerand illustrated by Merian. Based on the strength of the impression and thepaper characteristics, this example is an original 17th-century printing ratherthan a later reissue.
The impression is in fair condition. It has been trimmedjust outside the platemark. The verso shows two faint tape marks at the uppercorners from previous mounting. A damage along the vertical fold line was fixedon verso with tape. The paper shows light toning and scattered foxing, typicalfor its age.
Print Details • Size: 16.25 × 4.5 in • Paper: Laid paper with a “M” watermark • Condition: Fair — strong impression; trimmed outside platemark; minor foxingand toning; tape marks on top corners; vertical damage fixed on verso; unframed
Disclaimer: I have conducted thorough research to ensure the accuracy and authenticity ofthis piece to the best of my ability. However, it is sold as is, with noguarantees or warranties regarding its provenance or historical attribution.
