von Martius. The Book of Palms

Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius, a professor of botany at the University of Munich, was laid to rest in a coffin covered with fresh palm leaves, a reference to his groundbreaking Natural History of Palms. The work, published between 1823 and 1853, included 240 exquisite chromolithographic illustrations and was based on von Martius' expeditions through Brazil and Peru. It outlined the modern classification of palms, described all the palms of Brazil, and produced the first maps of palm biogeography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 568 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2020
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

On December 15, 1868, Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius, a renowned professor of botany at the University of Munich and the director of the Royal Botanic Garden, was laid to rest in a coffin adorned with fresh palm leaves. These fronds served as a poignant tribute to his groundbreaking work, the Natural History of Palms, a monumental three-volume publication that spanned from 1823 to 1853. This encyclopedic treasure, adorned with 240 exquisite chromolithographic illustrations, was the culmination of von Martius' extensive expeditions through Brazil and Peru. From 1817 to 1820, he traversed a staggering distance of over 2,250 km (1,400 miles) through the Amazon basin, accompanied by the renowned zoologist Johann Baptist von Spix. Their mission was to explore natural history and indigenous tribes, resulting in an unparalleled catalog of all known genera within the palm family. This comprehensive work not only outlined the modern classification of palms but also provided detailed descriptions of all palms found in Brazil and pioneered the creation of the first maps of palm biogeography.

What sets von Martius' folio apart is its unique inclusion of cross-sectioned diagrams, vividly showcasing the architectural marvels of these towering trees. For Central Europeans, these diagrams would have been a revelation, offering a glimpse into the intricate inner workings of these exotic plants. Moreover, the color landscapes depicted in the folio are equally awe-inspiring, showcasing various palms standing alone in their simple and elegant beauty. These images not only enriched the scientific understanding of palms but also captured their aesthetic allure, leaving a lasting impression on those who encountered them.

Von Martius' legacy as a botanist and explorer continues to inspire and captivate generations, thanks to his tireless efforts in documenting the diversity and beauty of the palm family. His Natural History of Palms remains a cornerstone of botanical literature, and his contributions to the field of botany have left an indelible mark on the scientific community. Through his meticulous research and artistic depiction, von Martius has ensured that the palm family continues to captivate and intrigue people around the world, reminding us of the wonders of nature and the immense knowledge that can be gained through exploration and observation.

Weight: 1108g
Dimension: 204 x 151 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836556231