The Tree
The garden in the 1597 frontispiece is thought to be based on other European woodcuts and modified to suit an Elizabethan garden. As John Gerard worked for Lord Burghley (William Cecil), it is possible that this is a representation of his garden at that time.
The season could be late spring to early summer when the leaves are fully out on deciduous trees. The woman looking down on the garden, flanked by angelic looking beings maybe Mary Queen of Scots. This is possible as she abdicated in 1567 and died in 1587. As this first frontispiece was completed in 1597, perhaps it was also a form of dedication / memorial to the former Queen.
I’m still working on improving my tree art. This one is drawn on yellow brolly material.
