Basilius Besler (German, 1561-1629). "Halicacabum vulgatius, Pisum cordatum, Halicacabum seu Sola num Indicum Camerary" from "Hortus Eystettensis sive Diligens et Accurata Omnium Plantarum . . .", Eichstatt & Nuremberg, 1613 CE. A hand-colored engraving by European botanical master Basilius Besler that is an outstanding depiction of three Chinese Lantern plants, visually impressive and skillfully drawn. Besler had a gift for creating rhythmic compositions and presenting images that were both informative - depicting the specimens from the roots and stems to the fruits, vegetables, and / or flowers - and visually engaging. What's more, each engraving was complimented with calligraphic lettering - certainly among the most fabulous works of botanical illustration of all time. Set in a gorgeous custom wood frame with a beautiful double mat. Size: 26" W x 30" H (66 cm x 76.2 cm) with mat and frame

Basilius Besler was a Nuremberg apothecary who was fortunate enough to have the Prince Bishop of Eicstatt (near Nuremberg) as a patron. Besler was in charge of the elite bishop's extensive gardens, and thanks to the financial support of his patron, he took on an ambitious botanical illustration project. Over a period of sixteen years, Besler created detailed drawings which, with the assistance of six skilled engravers, became two immense folio volumes - including 374 plates depicting more than one thousand flower specimens. Besler presented the plants as life size and arranged the prints according to the seasons. Besler's immense florilegium was by all accounts the largest and most comprehensive early work of this genre.

Provenance: private S.S. collection, Boulder, Colorado, USA

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#129016

Plate mark is visible. One can also see faint silhouettes of the text behind. Just a few tiny scuffs (nearly invisible) to the frame. Generally excellent with a beautiful custom frame.