Treasures of the Tropics: Lac, Lancas, and Fagaras in De Bry's 1601 Engraving

"Tropical Abundance: The Jackfruit and Palm Trees in De Bry's 1601 Engraving" Description: This remarkable 1601 engraving by Theodore de Bry illustrates the lush vegetation of India...

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 As a historical document, this engraving provides insight into the botanical knowledge and the artistic conventions of the period, making it a valuable piece for both its historical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 This particular piece is not only a work of art but also a historical document, offering insight into the botanical wealth of India as seen through the eyes of early modern Europeans...

Title: "Aromatic Treasures of the Indies: The Enchanting Scents of De Bry’s Exotic Collection" Description: This intricate 1601 engraving from Theodore de Bry’s collection showcases...

Title: "Verdant Wonders: Exotic Trees and Spices of India in De Bry's 1601 Illustration" Description: This striking 1601 engraving by Theodore de Bry, titled "IDEA LANTOR, ASSA, PIM...

The Triumph of Ceres engraving by Louis Crepy after Jean-Antoine Watteau. Has Watteau inscription on bottom left and Crepy inscription on the right. An early 1700's French engraving ...

Lithograph engraving of House de Tasso Torquato, 19th century. Measures: H 41cm, L 31cm.  

A large, nicely-framed Italian hand-colored engraving in tones of terracotta and black (17th century, with more recent matte and frame) by Pietro Bartoli. The engraving depicts the mosaic ceiling in the church of Santa Costanza outside of Rome, which was studied by the ecclesiatical archaeologist Giovanni Ciampini. The mosaic ceiling no longer exists, but is known through various depictions of the artwork, such as this engraving. The images include Christian imagery including the sacrifice of Cain and Abel and possibly Noah building the ark. The upper row of mosaics is believed to represent scenes from the New Testament, with caryatids dividing the ceiling into twelve segments. The engraving is captioned in Latin: "Opus Musiuum olim in tholo Templi, quod vulgo creditur Bacchi, nunc Sancte Constantie extra Portam Piam cariatides, et Telamones in duodecium dividant Segmenta, ubi plura autumnales ferias, et piscationis Genium demostrant, iuxta interpretionem Ciampini qui mediatatem exhibet Veterum monum." In the 17th century, the church of Santa Costanza was known as the "Temple of Bacchus," and was the site of rowdy Bacchic festivals until Pope Clement XI banned the rites in 1720. Pietro Santo...

A very nice Hollywood movie original lithograph for the film The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, directed by John Huston. Starring Humphrey Bogart, Walter H...