Antique Natural HistoryOriginal plates from the naturalists' books, 1600s to 1900s
Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885
Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, view 2
Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, view 3

Close-ups

Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, close-up 1

Framed and on the wall

Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, shown framedParasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, shown framed on a wallParasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885, shown framed in a room

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

Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885

£255 ($335, €299)

Period original, not a reproduction.

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

Date
1885
Size
12.6 × 16.5 in (32 × 42 cm)
Condition
Good. Good antique condition. Light age-related toning consistent with late 19th-century lithographs. Central vertical folds present to both sheets, as issued. Minor edge wear; no significant damage or restoration observed.
Period
Late 19th century
Section
Botanical
Reference
f_48482802

Parasol & Boletes Mushrooms, Antique Botanical Lithograph Set, 1885

This attractive two-plate set of large-format botanical lithographs illustrates a diverse range of European mushrooms, combining architectural parasol forms with richly textured Boletes and coral-like fungi. Published in 1885, the plates reflect the late 19th century’s fascination with precise fungal classification while offering strong decorative appeal.

The prints were produced under the direction of Dr. Wilhelm Fünfstück, a respected German botanist and academic associated with the Royal Polytechnic Institute in Stuttgart. Renowned for his work in mycology, Fünfstück’s illustrations are valued for their scientific accuracy, balanced compositions, and refined use of colour.

Together, the two plates create a visually engaging dialogue: one dominated by tall, sculptural mushrooms, the other by dense organic textures and varied forms. The restrained palette of warm browns, soft greens, and muted reds allows the set to integrate seamlessly into both classic and contemporary interiors. Displayed side by side, the prints form a cohesive diptych well suited for living spaces, libraries, or hospitality settings.

Both sheets retain their original central vertical fold, as issued, reflecting their original publication format. Offered unframed, the set provides flexibility for custom framing to suit individual interiors.

Condition report:

Good antique condition. Light age-related toning consistent with late 19th-century lithographs. Central vertical folds present to both sheets, as issued. Minor edge wear; no significant damage or restoration observed.

Framing tips:

For a cohesive presentation, frame both prints identically with generous ivory or parchment mats and dark walnut, ebonised, or muted gilt frames. Hung as a horizontal diptych, the contrasting compositions create a strong yet balanced focal point.

Technique: Lithograph

Maker: Dr. Wilhelm Fünfstück, Germany, 1885