Oranges 1

Titled “Aranzi Nanina de China,” this portrait of oranges is from Nürnbergische Hesperides (1708-14), published by Johann Christoph Volkamer, a wealthy Nürnberg merchant. It is filled with depictions of the rare citrus fruit he grew in his magnificent orangery. Unlike other 18th-centry botanical engravings, in which the specimens are set against plain backgrounds, the engravings in this work include views of palaces and gardens in Germany and northern Italy. These delightful details of baroque gardens make the engravings especially attractive.

The image measures 9” x 14". It is matted and framed in a black wooden frame. The frame measures 24¾" x 19½"

From the Collections of the LuEsther T. Mertz Library at The New York Botanical Garden.