Home > Arts > Artists > T > Andre Thevet
Captive giraffe, 16th century
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Captive giraffe, 16th century
Captive giraffe. 16th-century artwork of men leading a captive giraffe, with another giraffe feeding in the background. Giraffes were a rare sight in Europe before the 19th century, with one specimen known to have been brought to Rome by Julius Caesar, and another case documented in the 15th century. Artwork from Cosmographie universelle (1575) by the French explorer and writer Andre Thevet (1516-1590). This book described the history and geography of the lands in which Thevet had travelled. The two volumes and four tomes contain over 1000 pages divided into 23 books. This woodcut is from chapter XIII of book XI
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9199643
© MIDDLE TEMPLE LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1500s 1575 16th Century Africa African Andre Thevet Captive Captured Cosmographie Universelle Feeding French Giraffa Camelopardalis Giraffe Lead Leading Mammal Mediaeval Medieval Middle Ages Middle East Natural History Woodcut Halter Menagerie Zookeeper Zookeepers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print depicts a rare sight in 16th-century Europe - a captive giraffe being led by men, with another giraffe peacefully feeding in the background. Giraffes were considered exotic creatures during this time, and their presence was limited to only a few documented cases. The artwork is from "Cosmographie universelle" a renowned book written by French explorer and writer Andre Thevet. This comprehensive work described the history and geography of the lands he had traveled. The woodcut featured here is from chapter XIII of book XI, showcasing the fascinating encounter between humans and these majestic African mammals. In an era before zoos existed as we know them today, menageries were established to house such extraordinary animals. The image portrays European zookeepers leading the captive giraffe using halters while surrounded by curious onlookers. It offers us a glimpse into how people of that time perceived wildlife from distant lands. Todd-White Art Photography has beautifully captured this historical moment through their lens, allowing us to appreciate both the intricate details of the artwork and its significance within natural history. As we admire this monochrome illustration, let us reflect on our evolving relationship with nature throughout centuries past.
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.