Basilius Besler “Hyacinthus Candidissimus Pleno Flore” From the Rare Book of Hand Colored Engravings “Hortus Eystettensis,” Likely Published in 1640

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In 1600 the Prince-Bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria commissioned Baselius Besler (1561-1629,) an apothecary and botanist, to create a codex … Read more In 1600 the Prince-Bishop of Eichstätt in Bavaria commissioned Baselius Besler (1561-1629,) an apothecary and botanist, to create a codex of plants in his Renaissance style garden. This garden was the first renaissance style garden in Germany, and the only one outside of Italy. The result, a book of botanical engravings, was published in 1613. Besler first published a black and white version to be used for reference. After the black and white version, he published the Deluxe Hortus Eystettensis. This rare hand colored copper engraving on laid paper, depicting varieties of hyacinth flowering plants, is likely from the Deluxe 1640 printing. The Latin names of the plants depicted are “Hyacinthus Candidissimus Pleno Flore,” “Hyacinthus Orientalis Sinotinus Erectus Candidis Floribus,” “Hyacinthus Orientalis Serotinus Erectis et Coeruleis Floribus,” “Hyacinthus Orientalis Flore Coeruleo Plena,” “Hyacinthus Orientalis Serotinus Mixtus.”

This hand colored copper engraving is in excellent overall condition with wide margins and minor imperfections consistent with age and use. The plate marks are visible.

Dimensions:
Image with margins - 16” width, 19.5” height
Frame - 28.25” width, 31.5” height See less