5920 - Besler, First Ed, pub. 1613 - 4 Large Folio Botanical Engravings

Besler, First Ed, pub. 1613 - 4 Large Folio Botanical Engravings Description of the work: Included in this lot: Intermediate Fleabane [Conyza media]; Alpine Aster / Attica Aster [Aster Atticus]; Alpine Aster / Attica Aster [Aster Atticus] Marsh Cinquefoil [Quinquefolium palustre]; Great Cinquefoil [Quinquefolium maius]; Tormentil [Tormentilla] Broomrape [Orobanche]; Hemlock [Cicuta maxima]; Bur-reed [Sparganium] Bistort [Bistorta Maior]; Wood Sage [Salvia agrestis]; Wood Sage [Salvia agrestis] Description of the work: This rare first edition folio botanical engraving is from Basilius Besler's Hortus Eystettensis. It was published in 1613. Bishop-prince Johann Konrad von Gemmingen created a magnificent garden to praise God and celebrate the diversity of creation. In the early 1600s, the bishop-prince commissioned Basilius Besler to create a catalogue of his garden and thus Hortus Eystettensis was produced. Besler’s work, which depicted over 1100 specimens, is still widely considered one of the best botanical works ever created. Most of the plants depicted were drawn at their actual size. The first edition of the work was printed in 1613 and consisted of only about 300 copies. Hortus Eystettensis is truly a masterpiece and one of the most comprehensive and alluring botanical works ever produced. In the preface to an 1806 edition, Franz Seraph Widmann said “...by reason of...the magnificence of its engravings, [this work] deserves to rank high among the rarest works of its kind." Paper Size: ~ 17 1/4" by 22" Paper Type or Special Features: Large Folio Engraving with Professional Hand-coloring Condition: The work is in good to excellent condition overall. The engraving is from 1613 so minor imperfections due to age are to be expected, and most imperfections (if present) can be noted in the pictures. There may be some wear or chipping to the edges in this work, occasionally with archival repair. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.