Antique Natural HistoryOriginal plates from the naturalists' books, 1600s to 1900s
Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874
Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, view 2

Close-ups

Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 1Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 2Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 3Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 4Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 5Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, close-up 6

Framed and on the wall

Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, shown framedAlpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, shown framed on a wallAlpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874, shown framed in a room

Frame and rooms are illustrations of how the print could look; the description says what is included.

Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874

$155 (£120, €140)

Period original, not a reproduction.

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Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.

Date
1874
Size
9.8 × 6.5 in (24.9 × 16.5 cm)
Condition
Good. Condition summary: The print is in good antique condition, with only slight edge wear and some natural toning, enhancing its authenticity and vintage char,me. Only minor wear along the top right edges or corner, which is, once framed, not visible.
Period
Late 19th century
Section
Botanical
Reference
f_45277992

Title: Alpine Botanical Print of Rock Soapwort and Nodding Bellflower, 1874

Description: This charming botanical lithograph, published in 1874 by George Bell and Sons in London, beautifully depicts two lovely alpine plant species: the Rock Soapwort (Saponaria ocymoides) and the Nodding Bellflower (Symphyandra pendula). Featured in the second series of Alpine Plants, this print perfectly captures the delicate forms and vibrant colors of these alpine gems, reflecting the passion for botanical exploration that was so prominent in the Victorian era.

The upper portion of the lithograph showcases the bright pink flowers of the Rock Soapwort, each tiny bloom with five rounded petals and soft green leaves. This plant, known for forming dense mats of vibrant color in rocky alpine gardens, is rendered here with exceptional precision. The bottom half of the print depicts the soft cream-colored, drooping bells of the Nodding Bellflower. The intricate veining of the leaves and the fine details of the nodding flowers show the artist's commitment to accuracy and beauty.

Such botanical prints were highly prized in the 19th century, not only as scientific records but as beautiful art pieces that celebrated the marvels of nature. This work highlights the skill and dedication of the lithographer and the publisher, George Bell and Sons, who produced high-quality publications that remain treasured by collectors today.

Condition summary: The print is in good antique condition, with only slight edge wear and some natural toning, enhancing its authenticity and vintage charm.

Framing tips: To complement the bright pinks and soft greens of the flowers, choose a natural wooden frame with a pale green or cream mat. This will bring out the beauty of the print and make it a sophisticated addition to any botanical collection.