Antique Prints, Maps, & Books of Natural History, Botanicals, & More
Lot 64284:
Description
This collection of prints relates to the first flowering of the water lily "Victoria Regia" in Belgium which was grown on Van Houtte’s estate. "A plant so remarkable, for the rapidity of its growth, the leaves often expanding eight inches in diameter daily; instances under my own observation having occurred wherein they have increased, between sunrise and sunset, half an inch hourly, — for the beauty and wonderful construction of these leaves, — for the ever-blooming property of the plant, –for the seeming identity, at the first, of each blossom, yet in reality varying so much as to require a constant vigilance to detect every distinct characteristic" (introduction to Allen s Victoria Regia published in Boston in 1854)
Description of the Work:
This beautiful botanical print comes from Louis Van Houtte’s monumental work entitled
Flore des Serres et des Jardins de l’Europe (Flowers of the Greenhouses and Gardens of Europe) published between 1845 and 1883. Van Houtte was considered one of the premier horticulturists of his day and served as the chief editor for this work in coordination with prominent botanist Charles Lemaire.
Van Houtte owned many nurseries and greenhouses where many of the plants and flowers depicted in
Flore des Serres were actually cultivated. These plates in essence acted as his catalogue, and thus feature what were the most desirable botanicals of the time. Orchids, roses, camellias, carnivorous plants, and tropical or exotic flowers were particularly shown in the work.
Paper Size ~ 12 5/8" by 10" (Fold Out)
Condition report:
The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. There may be a few minor marks to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.
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