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

Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708) – Botanical Study of Cucumber (Cucumis) and Melon (Melo) – Hand-Coloured Engraving (c. 1700) - This hand-coloured copperplate engraving presents two detailed botanical studies: the upper section illustrates the cucumber (Cucumis, Concombre), while the lower section is dedicated to the melon (Melo). Both are depicted with cross-sections, outer shapes, flowers, and seeds (labeled A–G), capturing the morphological structure for botanical classification. The symmetrical arrangement and elegant engraving style are characteristic of Tournefort's scientific approach to plant taxonomy, combining clarity with artistic finesse.Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708) was a renowned French botanist and professor at the Jardin des Plantes in Paris. He was one of the first to organize plants into genera, influencing the later work of Carl Linnaeus. His publications feature detailed illustrations and descriptions that were widely used for teaching and botanical exploration in the early 18th century.Artist or Maker:Joseph Pitton de TournefortDimensions:22 cm x 14 cmMedium:Hand-Coloured EngravingDate:c. 1700Condition 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