Folio 66v - the basilisk, continued. De vipera; Of the viper

Folio 67r - the viper, continued.

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COMMENTARY

Text

Basilisk, only weasels can kill a basilisk. Regulus. Vipers.

Illustration

As indicated by the text, the male viper spits its seed into the female's mouth. The young gnaw their way out of their mother's side.

Comment

The illustration is pricked all over for pouncing. Initials type 2.

COMMENTARY

Text

Vipers' seductive sex life. The snake's body is slimy.

Comment

In fact, the European grass snake secretes fluid from its anal gland to cover its whole body.