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Common twayblade orchid, Neottia ovata
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Common twayblade orchid, Neottia ovata
Common twayblade orchid, Neottia ovata. 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
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Media ID 23192304
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Adam Bifolia Bifolium Captions Common Edition Herb Herbal Krauterbuch Latin Lonicer Neottia Ophrys Orchid Ovata Pirate Woodblock Woodcut Twayblade
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: Common Twayblade Orchid, Neottia ovata This exquisite handcoloured woodblock engraving showcases the intricate beauty of the Common Twayblade Orchid, Neottia ovata. The illustration is taken from the Krauterbuch, or Herbal, by Adam Lonicer, published in Frankfurt in 1557. The print is believed to be from a 17th-century pirate edition or atlas of illustrations, featuring captions in various languages: Latin, Greek, French, Italian, and English manuscript. The Common Twayblade Orchid, also known as Ophrys bifolium or Ophrys bifolia, is a delicate and captivating plant native to Europe and Asia. Its unique features include two broad, ovate leaves that resemble those of a host plant, making it an expert mimic in the natural world. The orchid's small, white, and purple flowers bloom in the spring and are pollinated primarily by bees, attracted by their deceptive resemblance to the host plant's flowers. The botanical illustration is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and artistic skill of the time. The intricate veining on the leaves and the delicate petals of the flower are rendered with remarkable precision. The use of handcolouring adds depth and vibrancy to the print, making it a true masterpiece. The Krauterbuch, or Herbal, was a comprehensive compendium of medicinal plants and their uses. This orchid, like many others featured in the herbal, was likely studied for its potential medicinal properties. The Common Twayblade Orchid has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including gastrointestinal issues and as a diuretic. The availability of this pirate edition with multilingual captions underscores the global reach and influence of botanical knowledge during the Renaissance period. The Common Twayblade Orchid remains a fascinating subject for botanists, historians, and art enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the rich history of botanical illustration and the wonders of the natural world.
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