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Caper spurge, Euphorbia lathyris, and wolfsmilk
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Caper spurge, Euphorbia lathyris, and wolfsmilk
Caper spurge, Euphorbia lathyris, and wolfsmilk spurge, Euphorbia esula. Handcoloured woodblock engraving of a botanical illustration from Adam Lonicers Krauterbuch, or Herbal, Frankfurt, 1557. This from a 17th century pirate edition or atlas of illustrations only, with captions in Latin, Greek, French, Italian, German, and in English manuscript
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Media ID 23191534
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Adam Caper Captions Edition Euphorbia Herb Herba Herbal Krauterbuch Lonicer Minor Pirate Spurge Woodblock Woodcut
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This exquisite hand-colored woodblock engraving, taken from the 16th century herbal "Krauterbuch" or "Herbal" by Adam Lonicer, showcases two intriguing plants of the Euphorbia genus: Caper Spurge (Euphorbia lathyris) and Wolfsmilk Spurge (Euphorbia esula). The illustration, which dates back to the Frankfurt edition of 1557, is a testament to the meticulous detail and artistic skill of the time. Caper Spurge, also known as Caper, is depicted on the left side of the image. Native to the Mediterranean region, this succulent plant bears distinctive spiny leaves and small, greenish-yellow flowers. The plant's name derives from its resemblance to the caper bush, which is used in culinary applications. In traditional medicine, the sap of the Caper Spurge was used for various ailments, including joint pain and inflammation. On the right side of the image lies Wolfsmilk Spurge, also known as Wolfsmilk, Cataputia Minor, Tithymalus, or Lactaria Herba. This plant, native to Europe and Asia, is characterized by its milky sap, which was believed to have medicinal properties. The sap was used to treat various conditions, such as wounds, skin irritations, and even snakebites. This pirate edition of the Krauterbuch, which includes captions in Latin, Greek, French, Italian, German, and English manuscript, is a valuable resource for the study of botany, medicine, and the history of natural sciences. The intricate woodblock engraving not only serves as a visual representation of these fascinating plants but also provides a glimpse into the scientific and artistic achievements of the 16th century.
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