Swabische - Franckisches - Ober Nieder Rheinischen Crais – Lotter 1760

Title: Crais Swabische - Franckische Crais - Ober Nieder Rheinischen Crais – Lotter 1760

Description:
This old map by Tobias Conrad Lotter (1717–1777) presents a detailed depiction of the Swabian Circle (Schwäbischer Kreis), Franconian Circle (Fränkischer Kreis), and the Upper and Lower Rhenish Circles (Oberrheinischer and Niederrheinischer Kreis) within the Holy Roman Empire during the mid-18th century.

Historical Context:
The Imperial Circles (Reichskreise) were administrative regions that played a crucial role in organizing defense, taxation, and governance within the fragmented Holy Roman Empire. These circles reflected the complex political structure of the empire, comprising free imperial cities, ecclesiastical states, and secular principalities.

1. Swabian Circle:

   • Spanning parts of southwestern Germany, including Württemberg, Baden, and modern Bavaria.
   • Known for its agricultural output, craftsmanship, and contributions to the imperial military.

2. Franconian Circle:

   • Encompassing northern Bavaria, with key cities like Nuremberg, Würzburg, and Bamberg.
   • A region rich in agriculture, trade, and early German cultural development.

3. Upper and Lower Rhenish Circles:

   • Strategically vital along the Rhine River, influencing trade, defense, and political control.
   • The Upper Rhenish Circle included parts of the Palatinate and Hesse, while the Lower Rhenish Circle covered areas around Cologne and Cleves.

These regions were shaped by ongoing wars, including the War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748) and the Seven Years' War (1756–1763), which brought troop movements and economic pressures to the circles.

Map Details:

• Cartographer: Tobias Conrad Lotter, a renowned copper engraver and cartographer from Augsburg, Germany.
• Origin: Atlas Geographicus Portabilis (Pocket-size atlas), Augsburg, 1760–1762.
• Size:
  • Sheet: 13.5 x 11 cm (5.25 x 4.25 inches).
• Condition: Light wear at the top, otherwise in good antiquarian condition.

This map is an authentic historical piece, offering a glimpse into the intricate territorial and administrative divisions of the Holy Roman Empire. Perfect for collectors and historians interested in European cartographic and political history.