10932 Jan Jonston (1603–1675) – Study of an Onager and Unicorns – Engraving (1657)
This illustration presents three distinct equine-like creatures, blending biological observation with mythological lore. The upper register depicts an onager, or wild ass, shown with a single horn protruding from its snout and a collar around its neck. The middle and lower registers feature two varieties of unicorns, identified as Monoceros or Unicornu Iubatus, characterized by their flowing manes and long, spiraled horns emerging from their foreheads. The animals are set against sparse landscape elements, including small shrubs and rocky ground. This work is part of the encyclopedic series Historiae Naturalis, a monumental 17th-century project that sought to provide a comprehensive visual and descriptive record of the natural world, documenting animals as they were understood through both classical texts and contemporary accounts.
Jan Jonston was a prominent Polish physician, historian, and naturalist of Scottish descent who achieved international fame for his massive compendiums of natural history. His most influential work, Historiae Naturalis, was published in multiple volumes and covered animals, birds, fish, insects, and mythical beasts, serving as a primary reference for scholars across Europe during the Baroque period. Jonston’s approach combined detailed scientific classification with high-quality engravings, collaborating with skilled artists to visualize the diversity of life as understood during the mid-seventeenth century. His work was widely translated and remained a standard authority in the field of biology for decades.
Artist or Maker: Jan Jonston.
Dimensions: Approximately 34 cm x 21 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: 1657.
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Värdering | 400 - 600 SEK |
| Köparprovision (inkl. moms) | 24.4% |
| Slagavgift (inkl. moms) | 6 SEK |
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