The Old Print Shop

Iris Lutea varigata Lobely. Iris latifolia decima Clusii. Pseuds Iris palustris.

  • ARTIST: Basilius Besler

  • MEDIUM: Copper plate engraving,

    DATE: 1613-1713.

  • EDITION SIZE: Approximate sheet size 20 1/2 x 16 3/4" (52.4 x 42.5 cm).. Overall framed size 30 3/4 x 26 3/4".

  • DESCRIPTION: A fine copper engraving from Basil Besler’s grand botanical work, Hortus Eystettensis. Published in Altdorf and Nurnberg in 1613 with editions printed in 1640 and 1713. The Hortus Eystettensis was the largest flower book published in that period and contained 367 different engraved plates depicting several flowering plants or herbs.<br><br> In 1611 the apothecary and botanist Basil Besler was commissioned by Bishop Johann Konrad von Gemmingen to depict the plants in his extensive gardens - taking 16 years to complete. the project <br><br> The completed work reflected the four seasons, showing first the flowering and then the fruiting stages. Winter was sparsely represented with just 7 plates. Spring was a season of abundance with 134 plates illustrating 454 plants. Summer showed 505 plants on 184 plates. Autumn with 42 plates and 98 species.<br><br>

  • ADDITIONAL INFO: Framed in a 1 5/8 gold ornamental molding and lined mat. The image does not do the actual print justice. It is bright, beautiful and well colored example.

  • CONDITION: Good condition and color.

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