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Germania Austriaca (Austrian Germany)
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This map of Austrian Germany, appeared in Homann’s Atlas Scholasticus. The title page of the atlas is labeled “Atlas Minor XXVI. Selectarum Tabularum Geographicum Homanni Secundum Methodum Huberni aliorumque recentorium geographorum dispositus et recognitus” – which translates as a selection of 26 geographic maps by Homann, arranged and revised according to the method of Hübner and other recent geographers. This scarce atlas, referred to as a Kleiner (meaning small/minor) atlas, included 26 selected maps by Homann, guided by Johann Hubner. This atlas also included a copper engraved, hand-colored title page as frontispiece from the Atlas Novus Terrarum Orbis Imperia by M. Rössler. Based on research, this atlas was most likely compiled between 1720 – 1737.
This map shows Austrian Germany, comprising the Austrian Circle of the Holy Roman Empire as well as the other (Habsburg) territories in Germany. The loose translation of the title is “Austrian Germany, comprising the Austrian Circle of the Holy Roman Empire, together with the other hereditary lands in Germany devoted to the Most August House of Austria (which is the House of Habsburg).” This map is devoted to the Austrian possessions within the Holy Roman Empire. Centered on the Austrian Circle, it carefully delineates the Habsburg hereditary lands, including Austria proper, Styria, Carinthia, Carniola, and Tyrol, while also showing their scattered territories in southern and central Germany. Boundaries of duchies, bishoprics, and counties are clearly marked, with rivers, mountain ranges, and major cities finely engraved to convey both geographic and political detail. True to Homann’s baroque style, the map is adorned with a decorative cartouche celebrating Habsburg authority, often with allegorical figures, imperial heraldry, and emblems of power.
Johann Baptist Homann (1663-1724) was a mapmaker who founded the famous Homann publishing company. He lived his entire life in Bavaria, particularly in Nuremberg. Initially, Johann trained to become a priest before converting to Protestantism and working as a notary. In 1702, Johann founded a publishing house that specialized in engravings. The firm flourished, becoming the leading map publisher in Germany and an important entity in the European map market. In 1715, Johann was named Imperial Geographer to the Holy Roman Empire by Charles VI and made a member of the Prussian Academy of Sciences. Most importantly for his business, his reputation and contacts gained him imperial printing privileges which protected his publications and recommended him to customers. That privilege was noted on his maps as “Cum Priviligio.” Johann is best known for this Grosser Atlas ueber die ganze Welt, or the Grand Atlas of the World, published in 1716. After Johann died in 1724, the map plates and management of the company passed to his son, Johann Christoph (1703-1730). In Johann Christoph’s will, he stipulated that the company would be inherited by his two head managers – and that it would publish only under the name “Homann Heirs.” The firm continued in business until 1848.
Condition: Very Good
Medium: Copper Engraving
Map Maker: Johann Baptist Homann
Coloring: Original Hand Color
Year: ca. 1720
In stock
