Georg Dionysius Ehret (German, 1708-1770), Christopher Jacob Trew (German) - Plantae Selectae, No. 50 - Ficus - 1957.197 - Cleveland Museum of Art

Ehret was born in Heidelberg, Germany in 1708 and showed an early interest in botany. He began his career as a gardener and worked in various botanical gardens throughout Europe, including those in Heidelberg, Vienna and London. Ehret's talent for botanical illustration was recognised early on and he soon became known for his detailed and accurate depictions of plants. His work was much sought after by botanists and naturalists, and he was commissioned to illustrate many of the important botanical works of the day. One of Ehret's most notable contributions to botany was his depiction of the sexual organs of plants, which had never before been illustrated in such detail. He also made significant contributions to the study of insect morphology, and his illustrations of insects are still highly regarded today. Ehret's work was not only scientifically important but also aesthetically beautiful. His illustrations are characterised by their delicate lines, vibrant colours and attention to detail. He is considered one of the most important botanical illustrators of the 18th century. Ehret died in London in 1770, leaving a legacy of scientific and artistic achievement. His illustrations continue to inspire botanists and artists alike, and his name is still synonymous with excellence in botanical illustration.