Bidspirit auction | Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708)

Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708) – ”Pyrus (Pear)” – Hand-Coloured Copper Engraving (c. 1700) - This finely hand-coloured engraving features the pear tree (Pyrus) — with flower, fruit, and cross-section studies — rendered in exquisite detail. It originates from a series of botanical illustrations based on the work of Joseph Pitton de Tournefort, one of the most influential botanists of pre-Linnaean Europe.Tournefort revolutionized plant taxonomy by introducing one of the earliest natural classification systems. His legacy deeply influenced later scientific thought, and his botanical plates reflect the Enlightenment's passion for order, clarity, and visual precision.The engraving illustrates both artistic elegance and scientific accuracy — hallmarks of the era’s botanical illustration — and was likely part of a French compendium aimed at both scientific and horticultural education.Artist or maker: Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656-1708)Medium: Hand-Coloured Copper EngravingDate: Circa 1700Dimensions: 22 cm × 14 cmCondition 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.