Subterranean Marvels: Stalactites and Stalagmites in Limestone Caves, Engraving

This 1601 engraving by Theodore de Bry, a master engraver and publisher of the late Renaissance period, depicts the flora of India with a remarkable degree of detail and artistry. The print is titled "DE ALGA SEV ARVNDINE INDICA, BAMBVS DICTA, ITEM DE arbore radicosa: & tandem de arbore Duryeons," which translates to "About the Seaweed or Reed of India, called Bamboo, also about the root tree: and finally about the Duryeons tree." In the illustration, we see a lush depiction of a bamboo grove, with its characteristic tall and slender form, showcasing the plant's extensive root system and dense foliage. To the left, there is a tree bearing large, round fruits, likely the durian, labeled here as "Duryeons." The durian is known for its distinctive size, unique aroma, and spiky husk. The image captures both the exotic appeal and the utilitarian value of these plants, which were of great interest to European audiences unfamiliar with such tropical vegetation. The visual composition conveys the tropical abundance and biodiversity of the Indian subcontinent. De Bry's engravings like this were highly sought after in Europe for their exotic subject matter and served to educate and fascinate the European public about the natural wonders of the world beyond their borders. As a historical document, this engraving provides insight into the botanical knowledge and the artistic conventions of the period, making it a valuable piece for both its historical significance and its aesthetic beauty. De Bry's work is renowned for its attention to detail, and this print is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of exotic lands and their natural abundance. His engravings were among the first visual records to reach Europe from the New World and the East, fueling curiosity and fascination with distant lands. This particular piece is not only a work of art but also a historical document, offering insight into the botanical wealth of India as seen through the eyes of early modern Europeans...

Nictago Jalapa (Marvel of Peru) – Hand-Colored Botanical Engraving by Desmares, circa 1825 Description: An original hand-colored copperplate engraving of the flowering plant Nictago Jalapa, commonly known today as Mirabilis jalapa or Marvel of Peru. This elegant botanical illustration features large, vibrant leaves and trumpet-shaped blossoms in striking yellow, red, and variegated tones. The print is engraved by Desmares, as indicated by the signature "Desmares, Sc." beneath the Latin name. This plate was published in Paris by Panckoucke around 1825 as part of the renowned series "Le Jardin des Plantes: Histoire Naturelle des Plantes," an ambitious natural history project associated with the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. Known for its scientific accuracy and exquisite hand-coloring, the series was a landmark in early 19th-century botanical publishing. This print exemplifies the refinement of French Enlightenment-era botanical art and is ideal for collectors of antique florals, natural history prints, or early scientific illustration. Keywords: antique botanical print...

Antique print titled 'Vue étant vers la droitte dans l'intérieur de la Grotte de St. Leu'. Copper engraving showing the cave, park and garden of Saint-Leu. This print originates from...

1798 Hand-Coloured Engraving - Caves of Mt. St. Peter and Mosasaur Discovery This 1798 hand-coloured copperplate engraving from Johann Ludwig Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" ("Pic...

Beautiful engraving representing half-timbered houses in a medieval street. It is signed by Emile Leroi, born in 1887 and died in 1944, a French impression...

This vintage boho rhino engraving, set in a beautifully detailed carved frame, captures a scene of rhinoceroses in a natural landscape. The intricate black-and-gold frame with a flor...

ST/728-2. Engraving of Maximilian I°, Roman emperor, from the original engravings "The triumph of Maximilian " of the 16th and 17th centuries by Albrecht...

An officially licensed Fantastic Four Wedding Marvel Heroes lithograph on fine art paper by ALEX ROSS. It is his Alex's amazing version of this wedding first appeared in the acclaime...