Bilder Ulisse Aldrovandi (1522-1605) – Nitrum or the Winged Dragon – engraving (1648)

Beskrivning

"Nitrum. Salpeter." depicts a winged dragon with a coiled tail, symbolizing the element nitre or saltpeter. 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 alchemical and scientific commentary on the mineral's properties and its vital role in the composition of various chemical compounds. In the seventeenth-century alchemical tradition, the dragon was a frequent symbol for powerful, volatile, or transformative substances due to its association with both earth and air.

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.