Hortus Eystettensis, published in 1613, stands as a monumental work in the history of botanical illustration. Commissioned by Prince-Bishop Johann Konrad von Gemmingen of Eichstätt, Bavaria, the book was created by Basilius Besler, a Nuremberg apothecary and botanist. The work meticulously documents the diverse plant species cultivated in the bishop’s garden at Willibaldsburg Castle, which was among the first botanical gardens in Germany and the only one outside Italy at the time. Spanning 16 years of dedicated effort, Besler’s compilation showcases over 1,000 plant species through 367 large-format copperplate engravings, each rendered with remarkable detail and accuracy.
The illustrations in Hortus Eystettensis are organized according to the four seasons, reflecting the natural blooming cycles of the plants. Spring is represented with 134 plates, summer with 184, autumn with 42, and winter with a modest 7 plates, highlighting the seasonal rhythms of the garden . Each plant is depicted from root to flower, adhering to the botanical illustration conventions of the time, and emphasizing both scientific accuracy and aesthetic appeal. The engravings were primarily executed by Wolfgang Kilian and a team of skilled artists, whose work elevated botanical illustration to new artistic heights.
Two editions of the book were produced: a luxurious hand-colored version without text, intended as a princely gift and sold at a premium price, and a more affordable black-and-white version with Latin descriptions, aimed at apothecaries and scholars . The hand-colored edition was particularly prized for its vivid depictions and became a symbol of prestige among collectors. The success of Hortus Eystettensis not only provided Besler with financial rewards but also set a new standard for botanical publications, influencing subsequent works in the genre.
Today, Hortus Eystettensis is celebrated as a masterpiece that bridges art and science, offering a window into the botanical knowledge and artistic sensibilities of the early 17th century. Its detailed illustrations continue to inspire botanists, artists, and historians alike, serving as a testament to the enduring beauty and complexity of the natural world .