"Myrtopetalon" (myrtle)

Until the end of the 16th century botanical illustrations were produced primarily as guides to plants of medicinal use. The 17th century however saw an "aesthetic revolution" as fruits and flowers were appreciated not only for their medicinal qualitites, but also for their visual appeal. During this period the flower garden developed as distinct from the herbal or medicinal garden and was considered a conspicuous luxury. With the expansion of trade and empire many exotic species of plants, flowers and fruits were imported for these gardens. The documentation of these plants resulted in sumptuous volumes produced for the great libraries of Europe. Abraham Munting a Dutch botanist and medical doctor produced the informative and decorative work entitled, Phytographia Curiosa...Exhibens Arborum...Fruiticum, Herbarum & Florum Icones... published between 1696-1702 which contained this image. It is one of the earliest obtainable botanical books. Munting's engravings are highly prized by collectors for their unusual depictions of plants shown larger than life and usually in a classical or landscape scene.

15 x 10.5 inches sheet.
Copperplate engraving with beautiful hand coloring.