Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021
Bistort, Polygonum bistorta, and adderstongue
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Bistort, Polygonum bistorta, and adderstongue
Bistort, Polygonum bistorta, male and female, and adderstongue, Ophioglossum vulgatum. Handcoloured woodblock engraving of a botanical illustration from Adam Lonicers Krauterbuch, or Herbal, Frankfurt, 1557. This from a 17th century pirate edition or atlas of illustrations only, with captions in Latin, Greek, French, Italian, German, and in English manuscript
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23191566
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Adam Bistort Captions Edition Foemina Herb Herbal Krauterbuch Latin Lonicer Pirate Polygonum Woodblock Woodcut Bistorta Colubrina Vulgatum
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite hand-colored woodblock engraving is an elegant representation of Bistort, Polygonum bistorta, and Adderstongue, as depicted in Adam Lonicer's Krauterbuch, or Herbal, published in Frankfurt in 1557. The illustration showcases both the male and female forms of Bistort, a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, with its distinctive triangular stems and arrow-shaped leaves. Adjacent to it, the Adderstongue, Ophioglossum vulgatum, is depicted with its unique, tongue-like structures, which earned it the common name 'serpent tongue' or 'adder's tongue.' Bistort, also known as Serpentaria or Polygonum bistorta, has a long history of medicinal use. It was believed to have various therapeutic properties, including the ability to treat snakebites, hence the name 'serpentaria.' The plant was also used to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote menstruation. Adderstongue, or Ophioglossum vulgatum, is an unusual plant belonging to the Adder's-tongue family. It is characterized by its fleshy, tongue-like structures that are used to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. The plant was believed to have medicinal properties, including the ability to treat snakebites, as well as to alleviate pain and inflammation. This botanical illustration is from a 17th-century pirate edition or atlas of illustrations only, featuring captions in various languages, including Latin, Greek, French, Italian, German, and English manuscript. The intricate details of the engraving and the vibrant colors of the hand-coloring showcase the beauty and intrigue of these plants, making this an invaluable addition to any botanical collection.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
