About this sheet
Jonstonus Friesian and Hungarian Horses Engraving, 1650
Original antique copper engraving depicting two European horse breeds: the Friesian horse (“Equus Frisicus – Frisisch Pferd”) and the Pannonian or Hungarian horse (“Equus Pannonicus sive Hungaric – Hungarisches Pferd”).
The upper composition shows the powerful Friesian horse standing in profile, distinguished by its heavy build, long flowing mane and feathered legs. Below, the Hungarian horse is represented in a dramatic rearing pose, creating a particularly lively and decorative equestrian composition.
The engraving was published in Joannes Jonstonus’ important Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus, Frankfurt am Main, 1650. The work was issued by the heirs of Matthäus Merian and forms part of Jonstonus’ celebrated multi-volume natural history of animals.
Joannes Jonstonus (1603–1675), also known as John Johnston or Jan Jonston, was a Polish-born physician, naturalist and scholar. His extensive natural-history publications were among the important illustrated zoological works of the 17th century, preceding the systematic classification of Linnaeus by more than a century.
From the first edition of Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus, published in Frankfurt by the Merian publishing house in 1650.
Plate II, titled within the engraving:
“Equus Frisicus – Frisisch Pferd”
“Equus Pannonicus sive Hungaric – Hungarisches Pferd”
A beautiful early representation of the Friesian horse and an appealing decorative work for an equestrian, country-house or natural-history collection.
Joannes Jonstonus (1603–1675)
Historiae naturalis de quadrupetibus
Frankfurt am Main
Published by the heirs of Matthäus Merian
1650
Original copper engraving
Plate II
This is an original antique print published in 1650, not a modern reproduction.
Condition:
Good antique condition with overall age-related toning, scattered spotting and surface marks. Noticeable old staining and discoloration to the lower left corner and margin. Minor handling creases and wear along the sheet edges. The engraved image remains strong and well defined. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
Period
Mid-17th Century
Style
Baroque
Natural History
Equestrian
Subject
Friesian Horse
Hungarian Horse
Equestrian
Horses
Natural History
Zoology
Frisian
