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Old Botanical Engraving of Vallisneria (Tape Grass) - 1803 Aquatic Plant Print
$155 (£120, €140)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1803
- Size
- 9.4 × 5.9 in (24 × 15 cm)
- Condition
- Good. The engraving is in good condition with minor edge wear and slight foxing. The hand-colored illustrations are vibrant, highlighting the intricate details of the aquatic plant. The paper is stable, preserving the clarity and precision of the features.
- Period
- Early 19th century
- Artist or book
- Curtis's Botanical Magazine
- Section
- Botanical
- Reference
- f_41295402
- Colour
- Hand coloured
What the condition grades mean
- Excellent
- Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
- Very good
- Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
- Good
- Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
- Fair
- Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Antique Botanical Engraving of Vallisneria (Tape Grass) - 1803 Aquatic Plant Print by Samuel Curtis
This engraving is from "The Botanical Magazine," published by Samuel Curtis on March 31, 1803. Plate 51 features two detailed illustrations of the aquatic plant Vallisneria, commonly known as Tape Grass. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 depict the plant's long, ribbon-like submerged leaves and distinctive reproductive structures, including coiled stems and small flowers. These illustrations were drawn by Sydenham Edwards and engraved by F. Sansom, showcasing the plant's unique adaptations to its aquatic environment.
About the Artist:
Sydenham Edwards was a celebrated botanical illustrator whose work was pivotal in the 19th century. His illustrations are known for their precision and lifelike quality, which were crucial for scientific accuracy. Edwards's collaboration with engraver F. Sansom and publisher Samuel Curtis ensured that "The Botanical Magazine" was a leading publication in botanical art and science, making significant contributions to the understanding of plant species.
Description of the Engraving:
The engraving showcases the unique characteristics of Vallisneria, an important aquatic plant. The detailed rendering includes long, narrow leaves that grow underwater and distinctive floral structures that float on the surface or are held aloft by coiled stems. This visual representation captures the plant's adaptation to an aquatic lifestyle, emphasizing the fine details of leaf texture and flower morphology. The delicate hand-coloring adds depth and realism to the engraving, making it a valuable piece for both botanical education and artistic appreciation.
The engraving is in good condition with minor edge wear and slight foxing. The hand-colored illustrations are vibrant, highlighting the intricate details of the aquatic plant. The paper is stable, preserving the clarity and precision of the botanical features depicted.
