Italy - Liguria / Genoa; Matthäus Merian il Vecchio (1593–1650). - GENVA - 1621-1650

Suggestive and meticulous seventeenth-century bird's-eye view of the Republic of Genoa as seen from the sea. The scene embraces the entire urban and port amphitheater, from La Lanterna and San Pier d'Arena on the left to the Bisagno river mouth and the Polcevera stream (Pontecararo) on the right. Up above, among pinkish clouds, stands the crowned city emblem with the cross of Saint George flanked by the title GENVA. The sea is traversed by warships, galleys and sailing vessels, with a wind rose engraved on the right. In the lower band there is a numbered legend in Italian across 8 columns (points 1 to 25) that identifies the main monuments and strategic places (including S. Piero de Arena, La Lanterna, Palazzo d'Andrea Doria, Il Molo, S. Lorenzo, Castelletto).

Stato di conservazione

Incisione e Coloritura. Excellent impression, sharp and very rich in architectural and naval details. Watercolor coloring well preserved, with warm and pleasant tones in the sky, roofs and hills

• Supporto e Margini.
Complete sheet with original white margins. Right margin reduced after the plate (see photo)

Difetti da segnalare: along the central vertical fold of the binding (reinforced at the back with paper thimble) the paper shows evident browning/oxidation, slight surface wear and a tiny hole/abrasion at the level of the mountainous horizon.