Europa Regina (Queen Europe)
Print, woodcut on paper • Sebastian Münster (from 'Cosmographia'), based on a concept by Johannes Putsch
Style & Movement
Northern Renaissance / Mannerist Cartography
Medium & Technique
Hand-colored woodcut; relief printing with period pigments or watercolors applied to paper
Creation Period
Circa 1570-1588
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 31 x 20 cm in a vertical portrait format typical of a folio book page (Folio 54)
Subject Description
An anthropomorphic map representing the continent of Europe as a crowned queen. Spain forms the head, Italy the right arm holding an orb (Sicily), and Germany the heart/chest. The figure symbolizes the political and cultural unity of Christendom under the Habsburg influence, with kingdoms integrated into her royal garments.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible age toning and slight foxing consistent with late 16th-century paper.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a German edition of Münster's 'Cosmographia'; previously held in private or university collections of rare books.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most famous examples of zoomorphic or anthropomorphic cartography; reflects 16th-century geopolitical ideology and the importance of the Holy Roman Empire.
Notable Features
Features the German heading 'Das ander Buch' and page number '54'. The coloring is characteristic of 16th-century 'old color' applied by publishers or early owners.
Condition Issues
Paper browning (oxidation), minor bleed-through of text from the reverse side, and characteristic softening of edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Acid-free mounting, UV-protective glass if framed, and climate-controlled storage to prevent further paper degradation.