Von Angurien 1544 - 1585

"Von Angurien" is a botanical illustration by Pierandrea Mattioli, a renowned Italian physician and botanist, created between 1544 and 1585. This detailed depiction showcases a vine with ripe melon fruits, meticulously rendered in watercolor and ink on paper. The artwork is part of Mattioli's renowned herbal, "De Materia Medica," a comprehensive study of medicinal plants. The image features a detailed description of the anguria plant, with emphasis on its leaves, fruit, and medicinal properties, reflecting the growing scientific interest in botany during the Renaissance. This artwork, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of early modern botanical studies.