Bilder Matthäus Merian the Younger (1621-1687) – Studies of Dragons and Winged Serpents – engraving (1650)

Beskrivning

"Draco bipes apteros captus in Agro Bononiensi." This engraving depicts four varieties of mythical serpents and dragons, illustrating a mix of anatomical curiosity and legendary zoology. The figures include a two-footed wingless dragon, a winged serpent based on historical descriptions, and an Ethiopian dragon. This work is a leaf from a natural history treatise on serpents and aquatic animals published in Frankfurt by the Merian publishing house. During the seventeenth century, such volumes were central to the transition from medieval bestiaries to early modern biological classification, often including creatures from classical lore alongside observed species.

Matthäus Merian the Younger was a prominent German engraver and publisher who managed his family's influential printing firm in Frankfurt during the mid-seventeenth century. He is widely recognized for continuing the ambitious topographical and scientific publishing projects initiated by his father, Matthäus Merian the Elder. His work is noted for its technical mastery of copperplate engraving and its significant contribution to the dissemination of scientific knowledge during the Baroque period. The Merian firm was one of the most prestigious in Europe, known for producing high-quality illustrated volumes that combined artistic elegance with empirical detail.

Artist or Maker: Matthäus Merian the Younger.

Dimensions: Approximately 35 cm x 21 cm.

Medium: engraving.

Date: 1650.

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.