Included in this lot:

Iris - Florentine Flag. 671
Sweet-scented Bastard Iris. 1514
Iris - Long-leaved Flag. 875
Iris - Smaller Sulphur-Coloured Bastard Flag. 1131


Description of the work:

This originally hand-colored engraving is from William Curtis?s The Botanical Magazine; or, Flower-Garden displayed: in which the most ornamental foreign plants, cultivated in the open ground, the green-house, and the stove, are accurately represented in their natural colours... This engraving was published between 1803 and 1809 in London by S. Couchman.

William Curtis (1746-1799) was a famous English botanist. He was determined to produce a scientifically accurate journal, and so took care that artists used live specimens for reference. Each plate features a meticulously drawn specimen with an accompanying descriptive text for each. The first 70 volumes (1787-mid1800s) were printed using copper etching and then finished with watercolor added by hand.

Commonly referred to as Curtis' Botanical Magazine, this prolific periodical was first published in 1787 and is still in publication today by the Kew Gardens. "It is, indeed, the oldest current scientific periodical of its kind with coloured illustrations in the world, and in the beauty of production and high standard of its contributions it can claim a unique place" (Henry II, p. 302)


Paper Size: ~ 5 1/2" by 9"


Paper Type or Special Features: Originally Hand-colored Engraving

The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. There may be a few minor marks or imperfections to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.