Fine Art Print : Woodcut of a still used to make medicinal spirits
Fine Art Prints from Science Photo Library
Woodcut of a still used to make medicinal spirits
Medicinal distillation. Medieval apothecary using bellows on the furnace of a still used to make medicinal spirits. Flasks containing wine were placed in the opening above the furnace. Alcohol, being more volatile than water, would evaporate first and be collected in a flask (at right). Medieval texts claimed that alcohol should be distilled at least seven times before it could be used as medicine. Alcoholic spirits were known as Aqua Vitae (" water of life" ). They were thought to be materialised life-force because, as an antisep- tic, they cured infected wounds. Spirits were widely used in medicines and ointments for a variety of illnesses. Image taken from a 1512 book
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6419961
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
16th Century Alcohol Alternative Medicine Apothecary Bellows Distillation Apparatus Historical Image 16th Cent
20"x16" (+3" Border) Fine Art Print
Step back in time with our exquisite selection of Woodcut Fine Art Prints from the Media Storehouse. This captivating image transports us to a medieval apothecary, where the art of medicinal distillation unfolds. Witness the meticulous process of heating wine-filled flasks above a roaring furnace, fueled by the steady blow of bellows. Each print, meticulously crafted in the traditional woodcut technique, brings history to life with intricate details and rich, vibrant colors. Elevate your home or office decor with these stunning works of art that celebrate the fusion of science and history.
20x16 image printed on 26x22 Fine Art Rag Paper with 3" (76mm) white border. Our Fine Art Prints are printed on 300gsm 100% acid free, PH neutral paper with archival properties. This printing method is used by museums and art collections to exhibit photographs and art reproductions.
Our fine art prints are high-quality prints made using a paper called Photo Rag. This 100% cotton rag fibre paper is known for its exceptional image sharpness, rich colors, and high level of detail, making it a popular choice for professional photographers and artists. Photo rag paper is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print. If you can afford to spend more on a higher quality paper, then Photo Rag is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print.
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 35.5cm x 50.8cm (14" x 20")
Estimated Product Size is 55.9cm x 66cm (22" x 26")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
This woodcut print from the 16th century offers a glimpse into the world of medieval apothecaries and their intricate process of distilling medicinal spirits. In this image, we witness an apothecary diligently tending to a still, using bellows to stoke the furnace beneath it. The purpose of this apparatus was to extract alcohol from flasks containing wine placed above the furnace. Medieval texts emphasized that alcohol used for medicinal purposes should undergo at least seven rounds of distillation before it could be deemed suitable for consumption. These alcoholic spirits were known as Aqua Vitae or "water of life". Believed to embody the essence of life itself, they possessed remarkable healing properties and were widely employed in medicines and ointments for various ailments. The significance of this ancient practice lies in its ability to harness alcohol's volatile nature; being more prone to evaporation than water, alcohol would vaporize first and collect in a flask adjacent to the still. This potent elixir served as an antiseptic capable of curing infected wounds, making it highly sought after by physicians and healers alike. As we explore this historical image taken from a 1512 book, we are transported back in time when alternative medicine played a central role in healthcare practices. It serves as a testament not only to our ancestors' ingenuity but also their unwavering belief in harnessing nature's elements for curative purposes.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.