HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS ... : Hyacinthus I; Gloria Mundi (print)
Original hand-coloured engraving executed by J. M. Seligmann. Leaf measures 19.9 x 14.2 inches (50.5 x 36 cm). Fine condition. Some cosmetic retouching in gouache. Matted and ready for framing. Photo available by email upon request. From Christoph Trew's magnificent HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS OMNEM PER ANNUM SUPERBIENS FLORIBUS published in three volumes over a 36 year period from 1750-1786. Painted in a more opaque gouache to resemble a painting rather than the traditional practice of using translucent water-colours that allowed more of the engraving to show through. Each piece was meant to capture the flower at the peak of it's beauty instead of focusing solely on scientific detail. Several European artists were involved in this project giving a multi-ethnic flavour to the complete work. HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS is considered to be one of the most sumptuous of the florilegia. Being the one of the most elusive of the great flower books, the opportunity to own one of these leaves is reserved for only the most discriminating collectors. Item #25245
Price: $3,500.00 save 40% $2,100.00