TWO FRAMED ENGRAVINGS OF BOTANICALS, INCLUDING BASILIUS BESLER, ROSES AND DUMONCEAU PEACHES,mid-17th century to late 18th century. First, handcolored Besler engraving,"Rosa fylvestrisodorata inarnato flore", framed in giltwood with paper mat, measuring 33 5/8 in. high x 30 1/4 in.wide framed. In early 1600s, the Bishop-Prince Johann Konrad von Gemmingen commissioned Basilius Besler to create a catalogue of his extensive garden and thus Hortus Eystettensis was produced from these images.
Besler's work, which depicted over 1,100 specimens, is still widely considered one of the best botanical works ever created. Most of the plants depicted were drawn at their actual size. The first edition of the work was printed in 1613 and consisted of only about 300 copies. This is a later edition as the original text is visible from the verso of the sheet.
Second piece, Henri-Louis du Monceau handcolored engraving of peaches, entitled "Pourpree Hative, ou Vineuse Print", plate XI, page 64, in green mat with marbleized accents, measuring 19 7/8 in. high x 17 1/8 in. wide. (2 total).
Estimate $300-400
Neither examined out of frame, but do not appear to be laid down, and have no visible tears. The handcoloring is vibrant. The frames are also in very good condition. The glass is intact.
