Opdracht in De Boodts herbarium van 1640 1640

This is an inscription made in 1640 by Olivarius Vredius, included in De Boodt's herbarium. It is a dedication to a patron, written in Latin. In the 17th century, herbariums were not just scientific documents, but also status symbols. They reflected the owner's wealth, knowledge, and connections within a network of scholars and collectors. Patrons played a crucial role, providing financial support and access to rare specimens. This inscription sheds light on that system of patronage, highlighting the social conditions that enabled scientific and artistic production. It also speaks to the cultural value placed on knowledge and collecting. Historians often use inscriptions, letters, and archival documents to understand the complex social worlds in which art and science were produced. This herbarium and its inscription is a rich source for understanding the relationship between art, science, and society in the early modern period.