German Botanical Plates, Wildflowers & Medicinal Plants, Stuttgart c.1890

German Botanical Plates, Wildflowers & Medicinal Plants, Stuttgart c.1890

Description:

A visually engaging and scientifically rich set of four antique botanical plates (Tafeln 51–54), published in Stuttgart circa 1890 as part of Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs by M. Fünfstück. These chromolithographs represent a later section of the series, where the focus expands beyond simple wildflowers to include medicinal plants, shrubs, and economically important species, making this group particularly varied and appealing.

The plates feature an elegant mix of recognizable plants rendered with clarity and balance. Among them are Wood Sorrel (Oxalis), Flax (Linum), Lemon (Citrus limon), Rue (Ruta graveolens), and Touch-me-not (Impatiens noli-tangere) on Plate 51. Plate 52 introduces more arboreal and exotic subjects such as Mahogany, Pistachio, Poison Ivy, Horse Chestnut, and Maple. Plate 53 continues with species including Holly (Ilex), Spindle Tree (Euonymus), Buckthorn, and Crowberry, while Plate 54 presents a striking composition of medicinal and toxic plants such as Euphorbia, Boxwood, Croton, and Spurge varieties.

What distinguishes this set is the combination of ornamental beauty and practical botanical interest. The plants are depicted not only in bloom, but also with fruits, seeds, roots, and sectional details, reflecting the 19th-century scientific approach to classification and study. The palette is soft yet varied, greens dominate, accented by subtle yellows, pinks, and occasional deeper tones, giving the sheets a calm, natural presence ideal for interior display.

These prints work exceptionally well as a cohesive gallery wall, especially when framed uniformly. The diversity of plant forms, from delicate flowers to structured leaves and fruits, creates visual rhythm while maintaining harmony across the set. They suit both classic and contemporary interiors, particularly spaces that benefit from organic, nature-inspired elements.

This is an original antique chromolithograph, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The prints are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.

Condition report:

Overall in good condition for age. Light toning to the paper consistent with late 19th-century chromolithographs. Original fold lines visible as issued. Minor spotting or faint foxing may occur. Edges generally clean with light age-related wear. Colors remain fresh and well-preserved.

Framing tips:

Best presented as a set in a 2x2 arrangement for balance and impact. Use thin black or dark bronze frames with wide off-white mats for a refined, contemporary look, or choose walnut frames with warm ivory mats to emphasize the antique character. The natural tones pair beautifully with both light and darker interior schemes.

Technique: chromolithograph

Maker: M. Fünfstück, Stuttgart, circa 1890

Keywords: antique botanical prints, German botanical plates, chromolithograph, Stuttgart 1890, Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs, Fünfstück, medicinal plants prints, wildflowers Europe, wood sorrel, flax, lemon tree, rue plant, touch me not, mahogany, pistachio, poison ivy, horse chestnut, maple, holly, spindle tree, buckthorn, crowberry, euphorbia, boxwood, croton plant, spurge, botanical wall art, natural history prints, 19th century botanical, decorative plant prints, vintage botanical set, gallery wall botanical prints