Pl. CXLI. Antique Print of a Courtesan by Amman (1577)

Description: Antique print, titled: 'CXLI. Curtisana Sive Meretrix Romana' - This rare early plate shows a courtesan or prostitute from Rome, Italy in 16th century costume. From: 'Habitus praecipuorum populorum tam virorum quam foeminarum singulari arte depicti. Trachtenbuch: Darin fast allerley und der fürnembsten Nationen/die heutigs tags bekandt sein/Kleidungen beyde wie es bey Manns und Weibspersonen gebreuchlich/mit allem viess abgerissen sein/sehr lustig und kurtzweilig zusehen', published by H. Weigel 1577, Nuremberg. Ref: Colas, 113; Brunet, III, 7; Graesse I, 104; Lipperheide 7 & 8; Rahir, 290; Hiler, p. 895.

Artists and Engravers: Made by 'Jost Amman' after an anonymous artist. Jost Amman (1539-91) was born in Switzerland but in 1561 moved to Nuremberg, Germany, which was a prosperous and important city in the sixteenth century. He is known for his book illustrations, of which he was a prolific designer. He also made single sheet woodcuts and etchings, as well as designs for stained glass and ornamental metalwork.