Two Monks Present Silkworms Smuggled from China to the Emperor Justinian, plate 2 from Vermis Sericus The Silkworm engraved by Philip Galle 1537-1612

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Two Monks Present Silkworms Smuggled from China to the Emperor Justinian, plate 2 from Vermis Sericus The Silkworm engraved by Philip Galle 1537-1612", originally brought to life by the talented Giovanni Stradano. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Giovanni Stradano and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Two Monks Present Silkworms Smuggled from China to the Emperor Justinian, plate 2 from Vermis Sericus The Silkworm" is a notable work engraved by Philip Galle (1537–1612), based on a design by Giovanni Stradano (also known as Jan van der Straet, 1523–1605). This piece is part of the series "Vermis Sericus: The Silkworm," which visually narrates the history of silk production and its introduction to the Byzantine Empire. The series, created in the late 16th century, reflects the fascination with and the importance of silk in Europe, as well as the lengths to which individuals went to acquire the secrets of its production.

The artwork depicts a pivotal moment in history: the smuggling of silkworm eggs into the Byzantine Empire by two monks. According to historical accounts, these monks had hidden the eggs inside hollow bamboo canes at the behest of Emperor Justinian (r. 527–565 AD), who sought to break the Chinese monopoly on silk production. This event, occurring in the 6th century, is considered a significant turning point in the global silk trade, leading to the establishment of silk production in Europe, particularly in the Byzantine Empire.

Philip Galle, a prominent Flemish engraver and publisher, was known for his detailed and intricate engravings that often depicted historical and allegorical scenes. His collaboration with Giovanni Stradano, a distinguished Italian mannerist artist, on the "Vermis Sericus" series resulted in a visually compelling narrative that highlighted the technological and cultural exchanges between East and West.

"Two Monks Present Silkworms Smuggled from China to the Emperor Justinian" stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its artistic merit. The engraving is meticulously detailed, capturing the expressions of the figures involved and the momentous nature of the event. It serves as a testament to the lengths to which the Byzantine Empire went to acquire and cultivate the highly coveted secret of silk production, as well as the intricate web of trade routes and cultural exchanges that characterized the ancient world.

This work, along with the rest of the "Vermis Sericus" series, provides invaluable insight into the history of silk, the art of engraving, and the cultural and economic exchanges between the East and West during the late Renaissance period. It remains a significant piece for scholars and enthusiasts of art history, economic history, and the Silk Road.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.