Catalog Archive
Auction 132, Lot 684

"Stapelia variegata. L.", Knorr, George Wolfgang

Subject: Botanicals

Period: 1770-72 (published)

Publication: Thesaurus Rei Herbariae Hortensisque Universalis

Color: Hand Color

Size:
8 x 12.5 inches
20.3 x 31.8 cm
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This is a magnificent botanical illustration by one of Germany's preeminent botanical and natural history artists of the 18th century. Georg Wolfgang Knorr began his career in natural history with his work on Johann Jacob Scheuchzer's Kupfer-Bibel in 1731-35. Enticed by the popularity of the Dutch ornamental flower-plate books, Knorr began work on the Thesaurus Rei Herbbariae in 1750, designing and engraving the work's 300 plates. In 1761 he died and it was not until 1770-72 that his heirs finally published it. This plate shows the unusual Stapelia variegata, commonly called Starfish Cactus.

References:

Condition: A+

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $220

Closed on 6/2/2010

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