Pl. 153. (Citrus Topiaries) Hesperides... Rome, 1646. $950.00

"Topiariam Citrum..."

The Italian Jesuit scholar Professor Giovanni Battista Ferrari (c.1582-1655) compiled a beautifully illustrated study of citrus fruits based upon works by the Dutch artist and printmaker Cornelis Bloemaert (1603-1684). The fruit are depicted life-size, whole and in section, along with foliage and flowers. Ferrari also included garden views and a few allegorical scenes involving fruit. The work Hesperides Sive de Malorum Aureorum Cultura et Usu Libri Quatuor examined the taxonomy and classification of citrus fruits, including their origin, methods of cultivation, and medicinal uses. This engraving based upon a design by Ph. Galiard shows a gardener at the entrance to a long protective garden building with citrus topiaries in pots on one side and with the plants trained to climb the walls on the other. The vlla is shown in the far distant background.

Hand colored engraving.
14 x 10 inches, sheet.
Excellent condition.

See our collection of engravings of lemons and other citrus by Ferrari listed in the botanical section of our website