Amsterdam, Johannes Wolters, 1701. Very large single leaf (41.0 x 36.8 cm).

This spectacular, finely engraved "Wunderkammer" plate depicts items from the collection of natural history objects by the Dutch medical doctor and zoologist Frederik Ruysch (1638-1731). Published in his Thesaurus Anatomicus or Anatomisch Cabinet [Anatomical Thesaurus]. Shown are three human juvenile skeletons on a pedestal, surrounded by several other parts of the human anatomy, and - peculiarly - a small bird. The latter with - apparently - an allegorical function. First issue of this unusually large anatomical-philosophical plate. It was engraved by C. Huijberts, "ad vivum sculpsit". Plate engraved "Thes I, Tab I". Central to Ruysch's work are the bizarre, but anatomically correct illustrations of foetuses and anatomical preparations. "Ruysch drew on his art not only for strict medical science but also for flights and fancy. He often made up preparations in a rather romantic, dramatic way. He prepared the corpse of a child as if it were still alive so that Peter the Great was inclined to kiss it. A hydrocephalid child was prepared, seated on a cushion and with a placenta in its hands. Ruysch displayed these preparations ... and this 'cabinet' became a major attraction for foreign visitors. ... In 1715 he announced the sale of his collection but no buyers presented themselves before 1717 when Peter the Great bought it for 30,000 guilders" (DSB). This is Neerd Taf. 73, however, printed before the Neerd numbering (i.e., first edition). Very weak folds. A few skilful, marginal repairs, and in all an excellent, clean copy. Nissen ZBI, 3541.