Captive giraffe, 17th century
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Captive giraffe, 17th century
Captive giraffe. 17th-century artwork of a man leading a captive giraffe, considered the first depiction of a giraffe in a European printed book. Live giraffes were a rare sight in Europe before the 19th century. Artwork from the 1631 edition of Histoire generale du serail et de la cour du Grand Seigneur, Empereur des Turcs (General history of the harem and of the court of the Grand Seigneur, Emperor of the Turks), originally published in 1628 by French historian Michel Baudier (c.1589-1645). This work gave an account of the court of the Ottoman Empire, at the time ruled by Sultan Murad IV, from Constantinople (Istanbul)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9200015
© MIDDLE TEMPLE LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 17th Century African Captive Cultural Culture Engraving French Giraffa Camelopardalis Giraffe Lead Mammal Ottoman Empire Rare Rarity Turkish 1628 1631 Constantinople Halter Menagerie Picart Sultan Turk Turks Zookeeper
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a rare sight from the 17th century - a captive giraffe being led by a man. Considered the first depiction of a giraffe in a European printed book, this artwork holds historical significance. Live giraffes were an extraordinary rarity in Europe before the 19th century, making this illustration even more remarkable. The image is taken from the 1631 edition of "Histoire generale du serail et de la cour du Grand Seigneur, Empereur des Turcs" originally published in 1628 by French historian Michel Baudier. This work provided insights into the court of Sultan Murad IV and offered readers an account of life within the Ottoman Empire during that time. The engraving portrays an adult male leading the majestic creature with a halter, highlighting their unique bond amidst cultural differences. The monochrome aesthetic adds to its timeless appeal and emphasizes both the biological aspects and cultural significance surrounding this encounter. Todd-White Art Photography has beautifully captured this piece of history, showcasing not only nature's wonders but also shedding light on our evolving understanding of wildlife throughout different eras. It serves as a reminder that art can be used to document and appreciate our world's rich heritage while sparking curiosity about past civilizations and their interactions with exotic fauna like Giraffa camelopardalis.
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