Antique Botanical Prints of Bourbon Palm, Cocos Weddeliana & Screw-Pine, c.1897

Antique Botanical Prints of Bourbon Palm, Cocos Weddeliana & Screw-Pine, c.1897

This set of three antique botanical prints presents elegant renderings of tropical plants from the late 19th century. Featured are the Bourbon Palm (Livistona chinensis), the delicate Cocos Weddeliana, and the distinctive Veitch’s Screw-Pine (Pandanus veitchi). Each illustration highlights the refined leaf structures, graceful fronds, and botanical accuracy that characterize this series of chromolithographs.

The Bourbon Palm is shown in its youthful stage, with fan-like leaves radiating symmetrically from the stem. The Cocos Weddeliana, a small and decorative palm, is depicted with finely divided fronds that became popular as an indoor plant during the Victorian era. The Veitch’s Screw-Pine is captured in remarkable detail, its spiraling, serrated leaves emphasizing the striking architecture of this exotic species. Together, these plates reflect the fascination of 19th-century naturalists with rare tropical plants, blending scientific accuracy with aesthetic appeal.

Such botanical plates were originally published to document plant species with a high degree of precision, serving both as reference material for horticulturists and as works of art admired for their color and composition. Today, they remain sought after by collectors for their decorative value and historical importance.

Condition report: Excellent overall condition with vibrant colors and minimal toning. Light edge wear consistent with age. Plate numbers visible. The frame is not included.

Framing tips: These prints display beautifully when framed in a cohesive set. A dark wooden or black frame with a cream or light green mat will enhance the natural greens, while a gold-toned frame can add a classic Victorian touch, making them ideal for display in libraries, conservatories, or botanical-themed interiors.

Technique: Chromolithograph

Maker: Unknown, likely European, c.1897