Bilder Pietro Andrea Mattioli (1501–1578) – Carcinological Study of a Crab, Lobster, and Crayfish – Woodcut (16th Century)

Beskrivning

This illustration presents a systematic study of three crustacean species across vertical sections. The upper portion features a detailed woodcut of a sea crab, labeled Cancre de Mer, showing its rounded carapace and jointed walking legs. The middle section depicts a large European lobster, titled Astase, with its prominent elongated antennae and robust primary claws. The bottom section illustrates a common freshwater crayfish, identified as Escrevisse, displaying its segmented tail and smaller pincers. The accompanying French text provides a scholarly commentary on the natural history, habitat, and dietary or medicinal properties of these creatures, comparing their physical traits to the descriptions found in classical literature. This page is a primary leaf from Mattioli's commentary on the medical treatises of Dioscorides, which served as the most influential pharmacological and biological reference in Europe during the Renaissance.

Pietro Andrea Mattioli was an Italian physician and naturalist who became one of the most celebrated scientists of the sixteenth century. He is best known for his monumental work, Commentarii in sex libros Pedacii Dioscoridis, which not only translated ancient Greek texts but also expanded upon them with hundreds of new plant and animal descriptions accompanied by high-quality illustrations. Mattioli’s efforts to systematically document the flora and fauna of the known world laid the groundwork for modern biology and transformed the study of herbal medicine. His publications were translated into numerous languages and went through many editions, reflecting his status as a central figure in the scientific revolution of the Renaissance.

Artist or Maker: Pietro Andrea Mattioli.

Dimensions: Approximately 36 cm x 23 cm.

Medium: Woodcut.

Date: (16th Century).

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.