Das funft alter der werlt Blat LXXXIII

Title

Das funft alter der werlt Blat LXXXIII

Description

The front side (double page) depicts six Greek philosophers, including Strato, Posidonius, and others, the lineage of twelve Roman statesmen, and the Colossus of Rhodes. The reverse side depicts the line of the Kings of Syria (e.g. Alexander Balas, who reigned 150–145 BC), three bishops, and the line of four Kings of Egypt (e.g. Ptolemy III Euergetes, one of the most significant rulers of the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt), as well as Hannibal Barca (c. 247–183/181 BC), the most famous general of Carthage and one of the greatest military strategists of antiquity. Drawn by Michael Wolgemut. Engraved by Wilhelm Pleydenwurff.

ca. 1493

Artist

Schedel (1440-1515)

Hartmann Schedel (1440–1515) from Nuremberg is best known for the 1493 publication of the Schedel’s World Chronicle (Liber chronicarum), a universal history featuring 1,809 woodcuts—making it the most richly illustrated book of early printing. The chronicle, written in Latin by Schedel for merchants Sebald Schreyer and Sebastian Kammermeister, was translated into German by Georg Alt and printed by Anton Koberger. The illustrations came from the workshop of Michael Wolgemut and Wilhelm Pleydenwurff. The work covers world history up to 1492/93, divided into eight ages of the world, and draws on numerous sources, including Jacobus Foresta and Enea Silvio Piccolomini. Notably, it features highly accurate city views, many depicted in detail for the first time. Pleydenwurff introduced a new perspective by portraying cities from a fixed viewpoint, emphasizing their unique architectural and landscape features. The project was funded in part by the patron Sebald Schreyer.

Historical Description

In "Das fünfte Alter der Welt" (The Fifth Age of the World), Hartmann Schedel discusses events and figures from ancient history up to the birth of Christ. The chronicle combines biblical history with ancient history and also describes the Seven Wonders of the World as well as other famous structures.