Bilder Ulisse Aldrovandi (1522-1605) – Salarmeniacum or the Eagle – engraving (1648)

Beskrivning

"Salarmeniacum. Salmiack." depicts an eagle perched on a branch with its wings partially spread, serving as an alchemical symbol for sal ammoniac. This engraving was published in Bologna in 1648 within the Musaeum Metallicum, a posthumous work printed by Giovanni Battista Ferroni. The central figure is surrounded by gothic letterpress text that provides a poetic and scientific commentary on the element's properties and its relationship to the spirit of mercury. In the alchemical tradition, the eagle often represented the volatile nature of certain substances that could "fly" or sublimate during heating processes.

Ulisse Aldrovandi was a celebrated italian naturalist and professor at the University of Bologna who is considered a founding father of modern natural history. He dedicated his life to the systematic collection and classification of thousands of specimens from the animal, vegetable, and mineral kingdoms. His massive personal museum and research library provided the foundation for a monumental series of illustrated scientific volumes. Aldrovandi's work was essential in transitioning natural science from classical lore to empirical observation during the late renaissance.

Artist or Maker: Ulisse Aldrovandi.

Dimensions: Approximately 32 cm x 19 cm.

Medium: engraving.

Date: 1648.

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.