Dwarf Geranium, Geranium Reichardi. William Curtis botanical engraving c1787.

by Curtis, William

William Curtis hand-coloured antique print of Geranium Reichardi, Dwarf Geranium, drawn and engraved by James Sowerby c1787.

Original hand-coloured copperplate engraving for William Curtis's first edition of The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London circa 1787. Illustrations for The Botanical Magazine have always been revered - for their scientific accuracy as well as their beauty.

In 1787 when he was Praefectus Hortis (Horticultural Manager) of Chelsea Physic Garden in London, William Curtis (1746-1799) began publication of The Botanical Magazine “in response.. to solicitations for a work... (combining) Botany and Gardening”. Illustrating botanical specimens from around the world, this publication has been published continuously for over 230 years. It is now known as The Kew Magazine.

This is a delightful engraving in fine condition. Size of page is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches).