Woodblock Print of Raptor



This is a rare, first edition, folio woodblock engraving from Ulysse Aldrovandi’s Opera Omnia. The work was published between 1599 and 1648 in Bologna, Italy by Clemente Ferroni, Niccolo Tebaldini, & Giovanni Battista Bellagamba. Many of the illustrations are the work of Jacopo Ligozzi. It was a massive, multi-volume, natural history encyclopedia.

This work included the first published image of a toucan and bird of paradise. It was originally 13 volumes in total and featured illustrations of animals, plants, minerals, and fantastic “monsters” including dragons.

Aldrovandi was an Italian botanist, pharmacologist, and noted author. He studied mathematics, Latin, law, and philosophy eventully earning a degree in medicine in 1553. In 1549, on return from studies in Paua, he was arrested in Bologna for heresy and sent to Rome where he managed to exonerate himself, likely due to his parents' nobility.

Aldrovandi channeled much of his life’s work into collecting, writing and illustrating different biological specimens. His collection is now in display in the University in Bologna. The specimens were classified according to his own system and contributed to the later development of animal taxonomy.

He became a full professor at the University of Bologna in 1561 where he presented natural history as a systematic study. He was also appointed the inspector of drugs and pharmacies, which met opposition, but was confirmed by Pope Gregory XIII. The Pope actually became a benefactor of Aldrovandi's numerous works on natural history.

The bird in this work is a medium size raptor with prey in its beak. It is matted and framed by Perry Hopf.



Dealer Brian Cullity Antiques
Date: 1599-1648
Origin Italy
Artist/Maker
Measurements 9" x 13 1/2" sight
Inventory View Dealer's Inventory
Website http://briancullity.com
Price $425.00
Contact Brian Cullity, 508.888.8409 or  brian@briancullity.com

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