Ancient Goddess Of Sun And Stars

40 x 24.5 cm (15.5 x 9.75 inches).

Deut. Cap IV v. 19.

Interestingly the flowers include a Blue Lotus, otherwise known as the sacred lily of the Nile. Cleopatra was particularly enamored with this herb and it was represented in early Egyptian art. Apparently, drinking tea from it causes a dream-like, euphoric feeling - conveyed by the colours and symbolism in this intriguing picture. Perhaps Scheuchzer was familair with the pyschedelic effects of blue lotus tea?

This antique copper plate engraving was made in 1731 for Scheuchzer's incredible Physica Sacra.
It has hand painted water colouring embellished with metallic gold/silver paint. The engraving is on chain lined paper with strong plate marks. The paper has a lovely aged, creamy white patina and is in excellent condition.