Gros Gobet, Plate VIII, from "Traite des Arbres Fruitiers" by Duhamel Du Monceau, Henri Louis - 1768

Paris: Saillant & Desaint, 1768. First edition. Print. Very good condition. Original copper engraved plate of cherries (montmorency) with later hand color, from Duhamel Du Monceau's important 18th century fruit book. Only 1000 copies of the work were published. The artists include Aubriet, Basseport and Le Berriays. Bright, strong impressions. Henri Louis Duhamel du Monceau (1700-1782) was one of the most important French writers on fruit, plant physiology and agriculture, and "in this field he was one of the outstanding botanists of the eighteenth century" (Raphael). Image size 8.25 x 10", Paper size 9 7/8 x 13", printed on laid paper, fruit is deep burgundy with grey green serrated leaves. Page toned evenly. Book reference: Nissen 550; Great Flower Books, p. 55; Dunthorne 100; Stafleu TL2 1546; Oak Spring Pomona, 28.