Mattioli, pub. 1634 - Pair of Pages of Botanical Engravings (Palm Tree, Banana Tree, Coconut Dissected)

Mattioli, pub. 1634 - Pair of Pages of Botanical Engravings (Palm Tree, Banana Tree, Coconut Dissected)
This originally hand-colored woodcut engraving is from Pietro Andrea Mattioli's Les commentaries sur les six livres de Pegatius Dioscoride Anazarbéen, Traduit de Latin en Français par M. A. du Pinet. The work was published in Venice by A. Carbout in 1634 (first published in 1544).

The work features some of earliest examples of botanical and natural history woodcuts. The process was called xylography and it is the oldest technique that created artistic engravings first occurring in the 14th century.

Pietro Andrea Mattioli (1501-1578) was an Italian doctor and naturalist. He studied medicine at Padua, but his main focus was Botanic studies. He is one of the most noted naturalists of all time, basically creating the encyclopedia of Renaissance pharmacology with the work available here. He didn't just draw the plants, but carefully examined and documented them with special attention to the science and medicinal properties.

He translated and commentated the work of Dioscorides (1st century AD) and greatly expanded upon it for his publication. He also introduced many new plants for the first time. He integrated observations from other authors including Pliny, Theophrastus, Paul Egineta, and Matteo Selvatico.

His work was a true masterpiece. It was the classic text for teaching pharmacology for over two centuries. It included sections on aromas, ointments, oils, trees and animals.


Paper Size: ~ 9" by 14"


Paper Type or Special Features: Originally Hand-colored Woodcut Engraving

The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. There may be some light toning and text or image bleed through from other side. There may be a few minor imperfections or faint fox marks to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.