Description
Book Synopsis: On December 15, 1868, Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius (1794–1868), Professor of Botany at the University of Munich and director of the Royal Botanic Garden, was carried to his grave in a coffin covered with fresh palm leaves. These were a reference to his groundbreaking Historia naturalis palmarum: opus tripartitum (Natural History of Palms: a work in three volumes), published between 1823 and 1853. At the time, this encyclopedic treasury contained the sum of human knowledge on the topic, and included 240 exquisite chromolithographic illustrations, including landscape views of palm habitats and botanical dissections.
This epic folio was based on von Martius’s expedition to Brazil and Peru with zoologist Johann Baptist von Spix, sponsored by King Maximilian I of Bavaria, to investigate natural history and native tribes. From 1817 to 1820 the pair traveled over 2,250 km (1,400 miles) throughout the Amazon basin, the most species-rich palm region in the world, collecting and sketching specimens. On their return both men were awarded knighthoods and lifetime pensions.
In his epic work, von Martius outlined the modern classification of palm, produced the first maps of palm biogeography, described all the palms of Brazil, and collated the sum of all known genera of the palm family. Apart from his own collection of specimens and notes, von Martius also wrote about the findings of others. Von Martius’s folio is unusual in its inclusion of cross-sectioned diagrams, conveying the architecture of these mighty trees, which central Europeans would have found hard to imagine accurately. Equally remarkable are the color landscapes showing various palms―often standing alone―which have a simple and elegant beauty. This famous work is an unrivaled landmark in botanic illustration and taxonomy.
Details
Introducing Martius. The Book of Palms, a mesmerizing masterpiece that takes you on an extraordinary journey through the world of palms. Written by the renowned botanist Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge and beauty. With its exquisite chromolithographic illustrations, you will be captivated by the stunning landscapes and intricate botanical dissections.
What sets Martius. The Book of Palms apart is its rich history and the incredible expedition that inspired it. Von Martius, accompanied by zoologist Johann Baptist von Spix, ventured into the heart of the Amazon basin, traveling over 2,250 km to study natural history and native tribes. Their findings and sketches laid the foundation for von Martius's groundbreaking work, which became the ultimate resource on palms.
Immerse yourself in the world of palms as von Martius details the classification of different palm species and maps their biogeography. This comprehensive work also showcases the breathtaking beauty of individual palm trees, depicted in stunning color landscapes. The level of detail in the cross-sectioned diagrams will astound you, allowing you to truly appreciate the architectural marvels of these mighty trees.
Martius. The Book of Palms is not just a botanical illustration, it is a testament to human curiosity, exploration, and appreciation for the wonders of nature. This literary masterpiece will transport you to the lush rainforests of Brazil and Peru, allowing you to experience the marvels that von Martius and von Spix encountered on their awe-inspiring journey.
Discover the world of palms with Martius. The Book of Palms and be awed by its sheer beauty and depth of knowledge. Immerse yourself in von Martius's legacy and gain a new appreciation for these majestic trees. Order your copy today and embark on a journey of a lifetime.
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