Hartmann Schedel. Liber Chronicarum (Nuremberg Chronicle). (Anton Koberger, 1493). Folio (18x12”). Contemporary blind-stamped calfskin cover with modern, specially prepared slip-case. Latin text. Condition as in photos, likely some restoration to cover, some damp staining is apparent on either side of each page throughout much of the book.
From the Gerald F. Borrmann (Northern California Gentleman) Collection.
This is a very fine example of the Latin edition of the Nuremberg Chronicle, (a.k.a. Liber Chronicarum), published in 1493 by Anton Koberger, with text by Hartmann Schedel. Arguably the most historically significant printed books of the incunabula period and the history of literature, this monumental work presents a detailed historical narrative with an extensive series of over 1,800 woodcut illustrations. The Chronicle covers the history of the world from the biblical creation story to the present day of the late 15th century.
Some noteworthy engravings include a map of the known world (prior to the knowledge of discovery by Christopher Columbus) based on Ptolemaic geography with images of mythical humanoid creatures believed to inhabit the far reaches of the planet; panoramic views of important cities that include Nuremberg, Rome, Venice, Florence, and Jerusalem; biblical scenes and historical figures derived from the Old Testament, classical antiquity, and medieval history; and in the end of the book, dramatic woodcut scenes depicting the apocalypse and the final judgment day.
The Nuremberg Chronicle serves as a milestone in the transition from medieval manuscript culture to the age of the printed book, encapsulating Renaissance humanist interest in history, geography, and cosmology. The Nuremberg Chronicle is a historic treasure from the early days of printing that reflects the worldview of late medieval and early Renaissance Europe, including its religious, scientific, mythical beliefs, and attempts to illustrate world history and geography.
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