The Book Of Citrus Fruits: J. C. Volkamer : The Complete Plates 1708-1714

Beskrivelse

Discover the extraordinary world of citrus fruits through the eyes of J. C. Volkamer, who saw these fruits as celestial wonders. This stunning collection features large copperplate engravings of citrons, lemons, and bitter oranges set against surreal and majestic backdrops.

A captivating visual and botanical journey into the exotic citrus fruits of the 17th and 18th centuries.

J. C. Volkamer (1644-1720), a Nuremberg merchant passionate about exotic citrus fruits, gathered plants from across Italy, Germany, North Africa, and even the Cape of Good Hope. At a time when these fruits were still rare north of the Alps, his garden blossomed with a wide variety of specimens. His fascination led him to commission a remarkable series of 256 copperplate engravings illustrating 170 different citrus varieties, many shown life size, published in a two-volume set.

The first volume, released in 1708, bore the grand title The Nuremberg Hesperides, or: A detailed description of the noble fruits of the citron, lemon and bitter orange; how these may be correctly planted, cared for and propagated in that and neighboring regions. Drawing on years of hands-on experience, Volkamer offers comprehensive guidance on cultivating citrus fruits, including detailed instructions on building orangeries, glasshouses, and hothouses suitable for pineapples.

Each fruit variety is described with care, covering aspects such as size, shape, color, scent, the nature of the tree or shrub, leaves, and country of origin. The plates also pay homage to the lush landscapes that inspired Volkamer-from the coastal views of Genoa to his hometown of Nuremberg and beyond.

These scenes are rendered with exceptional attention to detail, matching the vivid depictions of the fruits themselves. You can admire grapefruit-laden branches stretching over sunlit courtyards in Bologna or marvel at a towering pineapple plant emerging from a South American setting, blending botanical beauty with enchanting landscapes.

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