An attractive early birds-eye view of the city of Orleans on the River Loire in France in fine wash colour typical of the period. The ‘Civitates Orbis Terrarum’ was compiled by George Braun (1541-1622) the Canon of Cologne Cathedral. Braun produced a total of over 500 city views and maps published in six parts between 1572 and 1617. Most of the engraving was the work of Simon Novellanus and Frans Hogenberg (1535-1590), many after drawings by George Hoefnagel. Published in the third volume first issued in 1581, the German edition following the ensuing year. Orleans is a city with a rich history. At the time of its publication the city was enjoying the prosperity which the University and the income from the bridge across the river brought in. Koeman II B & H 3 no. 6.