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Looking for sulphur near a volcano. Illustration
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Looking for sulphur near a volcano. Illustration
Looking for sulphur near a volcano. Illustration from Tractatus de Herbis, 15th c. from De Materia Medica by Dioscorides. Gothic art. Miniature Painting. ITALY. EMILIA-ROMAGNA. Modena. Estense Library
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Media ID 14185051
© BeBa/Iberfoto/Mary Evans
Dioscorides Emilia Estense Herbis Illuminated Manuscript Manuscripts Materia Medica Miniatures Modena Romagna Sulphur Tractatus Upright Volcanic Volcano Volcanoes 15th Masculine Pedanius Persons Volcanology Vulcanology
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite illustration is taken from the 15th century manuscript, Tractatus de Herbis, a section of the comprehensive work De Materia Medica by the renowned ancient Greek physician Dioscorides. The illustration depicts a man, likely a miner or alchemist, intently searching for sulphur near the base of an active volcano. The scene is a testament to the dangerous yet alluring nature of sulphur mining during the medieval period. Sulphur, a brimstone-like substance, was highly valued for its medicinal and industrial uses. Its distinctive yellow hue and pungent smell made it a sought-after commodity in Europe, particularly for the production of gunpowder and the manufacture of pigments. The proximity of the miner to the volcano underscores the risks involved in sulphur mining, as volcanic activity was a common source of sulphur deposits. This illustration is an exceptional example of Gothic art and miniature painting from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, specifically from the Estense Library in Modena. The vertical, upright composition, vibrant colors, and intricate details showcase the skill and artistry of the illuminator. The scene is reminiscent of the Middle Ages, a time when the study of natural substances, including sulphur, was a critical aspect of scientific exploration and discovery. The man in the illustration is shown with other men, possibly assistants or fellow miners, as they carefully search for sulphur deposits near the volcano's edge. The volcano itself is depicted as a towering, ominous presence, with smoke and ash billowing from its summit. The scene is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a glimpse into the dangerous and exciting world of sulphur mining during the medieval period.
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