Antique Prints, Maps, & Books of Natural History, Botanicals, & More
Lot 5524:
Description
This is the first 17 volumes of 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… The volumes were published between 1787 and 1803 in London by S. Couchman.
The 17 volumes are bound in 6 with 643 originally hand-colored botanical engravings and accompanying text. They are bound in leather, original 18th century calf. Titles to volumes one to six are bound in, index leaves to all 17 volumes present.
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 3/4" by 9 1/2"
Paper Type or Special Features: First 17 Volumes (Bound in 6) with 643 Engravings
Condition report:
The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. The bindings are rubbed but solid. There is some occasional discoloration and corner creasing, but good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.
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