Herbarius - Gart der gesuntheit - Hortus sanitatis 1485

This 1485 woodcut illustration from Hans Schönsperger the Elder's "Herbarius - Gart der gesuntheit - Hortus sanitatis," is a captivating example of early herbal medicine. The book, filled with detailed illustrations and accompanying texts in German, aimed to provide a comprehensive guide to the medicinal properties of plants. In this image, we see a vibrant depiction of Columbine (left), a flowering plant used for various ailments, and a detailed depiction of "Edern Schechta," a plant that was thought to possess a diverse range of medicinal properties, both illustrated with botanical accuracy. These meticulously crafted woodcuts demonstrate the intricate interplay between art and scientific knowledge, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of 15th-century herbalism.