Hand-Colored City Plan of Cologne by Nicolas de Fer, 1705
€ 340
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1705
Sheet size
27.3 × 40.8 cm (10.7 × 16.1 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13842-6
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Condition report: Minor toning along edges, slight foxing present. The colors remain vibrant, and the paper is well-preserved with crisp details, contributing to the overall appeal of this antique map.
About this sheet
This hand-colored map, titled "Cologne Ville Considerable Situee sur le Bord Occidentale du Rhein Capit. de l'Electorat de Meme Nom," was created by Nicolas de Fer in 1705. It is a detailed city and fortification plan of Cologne, Germany, depicting its position on the western bank of the Rhine River. The map illustrates Cologne's street layout, major buildings, and fortifications, giving a thorough view of the city's structure during the early 18th century.
The map is adorned with a decorative title cartouche and a compass rose that orients the map with north positioned to the right. This cartographic detail not only provides practical navigation insight but also enhances the visual charm of the map. The detailed representation of churches, streets, and defensive structures offers a valuable glimpse into Cologne’s urban and defensive planning of that era.
The use of hand-coloring highlights the different areas and fortifications, enhancing the legibility and overall aesthetic appeal of the map. This historical representation by Nicolas de Fer captures the essence of Cologne as a prominent city in the Holy Roman Empire during the early 1700s.
Condition report: Minor toning along edges, slight foxing present. The colors remain vibrant, and the paper is well-preserved with crisp details, contributing to the overall appeal of this antique map.
