Ornithogalum plant, 16th century

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Ornithogalum plant, 16th century

Ornithogalum plant. 16th-century artwork of a plant from the genus Ornithogalum. These plants grow from a bulb (lower right), and have grass-like leaves and star-shaped white flowers. The raw bulbs of these plants are poisonous, but some can be eaten after being cooked. This woodcut is from Vita clarissimi philosophi et medici excellentissimi Conradi Gesneri (1566) by the Swiss theologian Josias Simmler (1530-1576). This work was a biography of the Swiss naturalist Conrad Gessner (1516-1565)

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6340177

© Todd-White Art Photography

1500s 16th Century Book Bulb Conrad Gessner Edible Foliage Page Parts Poisonous Roots Swiss Toxic Toxins Vege Table 1566 Mono Chrome Ornithogalum

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> Arts > Contemporary art > Photography > Nature-inspired artwork

> Arts > Realistic drawings > Nature art > Botanical artwork

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a 16th-century artwork of an Ornithogalum plant, meticulously captured by Todd-White Art Photography. The genus Ornithogalum is known for its bulbous growth (visible in the lower right corner) and elegant grass-like leaves that gracefully complement its star-shaped white flowers. However, this seemingly delicate plant harbors a hidden danger as its raw bulbs contain poisonous toxins. Nevertheless, with proper cooking techniques, some species can be transformed into edible delicacies. The woodcut featured in this print originates from "Vita clarissimi philosophi et medici excellentissimi Conradi Gesneri" (1566), authored by Swiss theologian Josias Simmler (1530-1576). This biographical work pays homage to Conrad Gessner (1516-1565), a renowned Swiss naturalist who made significant contributions to the field of botany. The monochrome illustration not only serves as a historical documentation but also highlights the intricate details of the plant's biological structure. As we delve into this mesmerizing piece of botanical artistry, we are reminded of nature's duality – beauty intertwined with toxicity. Through Todd-White Art Photography's lens, we are transported back to the 16th century when scientific exploration and artistic expression merged seamlessly on the pages of books like these. Let us appreciate both the aesthetic allure and cautionary tale encapsulated within this extraordinary image capture.

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