Basilius Besler Ficus Indica 'Prickly Pear Cactus'

Superb original hand coloured engraving of the iconic 'Prickly Pear Tree' by Basilius Besler dating to 1640.

Basilius Besler (1561-1629) was a prominent botanist and apothecarist in Nuremberg. He was tasked with curating the garden of Johann Konrad von Gemmingen, the Prince Bishop of Eichstaedt in Bavaria. The Prince also requested a codex of all the plants growing in his garden. This commission would take Besler 16 years to complete and his patron passed away shortly before its publication. 

These prints are hard to come by and an invaluable piece of botanical history. Not only are they significant, but they are also enormously decorative. 

This print is in great condition and framed in a bespoke gilt frame with Truvue glass for optimal clarity.