Home > Arts > Artists > K > Athanasius Kircher
1662 Schott Sea Monsters and mermaids
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
1662 Schott Sea Monsters and mermaids
I Triton, II " Sea monster in the likeness of a monk", III " Sea man in the dress of a bishop", IV " Sea Satyr". Copperplate from Gaspar Schotts Physica Curiosa, sive mirabilia naturae. Gaspar Schott was a Jesuit scholar (1608-1666). He worked with Athanasius Kircher in Rome before returning to Germany in 1655 where he was appointed professor of Mathematics at Augsburg. This work may have been inspired by unfinished elements of Kirchers work and draws together a remarkable array of the real and the imagined. Schott describes them all as real, the monkfish here seems derived from the likeness of a dried ray fish to a monk. The Bishop fish is a logical extension of the principle!. Many of Schotts images were ultimately derived from similar to be found in the 16th century works of Gessner
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6317493
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
17th Century Beast Black And White Curiosity Fantastic Fantasy Kircher Monster Myth Mythical Freak Mermaid Merman Monkfish Mono Chrome Monstrosity
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of art from 1662, featuring sea monsters and mermaids. Created by Gaspar Schott, a renowned Jesuit scholar, this copperplate is part of his work called Physica Curiosa, sive mirabilia naturae. Schott collaborated with Athanasius Kircher in Rome before becoming a professor of Mathematics in Augsburg. Drawing inspiration from Kircher's unfinished elements, Schott combines the real and the imagined in this extraordinary collection. Although he describes these creatures as real, they are undoubtedly products of both observation and imagination. For instance, the monkfish depicted here bears an uncanny resemblance to a dried ray fish transformed into a monk-like figure. One particularly intriguing creation is the Bishop fish—a logical extension of Schott's inventive mind. This artwork reflects the fusion between natural curiosity and artistic interpretation prevalent during the 17th century. Schott's illustrations draw upon earlier works like those found in Gessner's publications from the 16th century. The monochrome aesthetic adds to their mystique while highlighting intricate details that bring these mythical beings to life. Paul D. Stewart skillfully captures this mesmerizing image through photography, preserving its historical significance for contemporary viewers to appreciate. As we gaze upon this print, we are transported back in time to an era where fantastical creatures roamed both land and sea—an enchanting testament to human creativity throughout history.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
