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

Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708) – Set of 2 Botanical Leaf Studies – Hand-Colored Copperplate Engravings (Early 18th Century) - This botanical set features two hand-colored copperplate engravings (Tab. 447 and Tab. 448), illustrating diverse leaf forms in meticulous detail. The left plate presents rounded and heart-shaped leaves with prominent venation, while the right plate focuses on long, narrow lanceolate and serrated types. Each figure is delicately outlined and numbered, reflecting the taxonomic precision central to Tournefort’s botanical system. Framed within red borders, the plates exemplify early Enlightenment approaches to plant morphology, merging scientific function with visual clarity.Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1656–1708) was a pioneering French botanist and physician, widely regarded for his role in defining the botanical concept of ”genus.” As professor at the Jardin du Roi in Paris, he influenced the direction of European botany through both his field expeditions and his rigorously illustrated publications. His systematic and aesthetic contributions helped shape the development of botanical science before Linnaeus.Artist or Maker: Joseph Pitton de TournefortDimensions: 23 cm x 18 cmMedium: Hand-Colored Copperplate EngravingsDate: Early 18th CenturyCondition 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.