William Curtis, Primula villosa. Mountain Primula antique print c1787

by William Curtis

First Edition Curtis hand-coloured copperplate engraving of Primula for William Curtis's The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London c1787.

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 nearly 240 years. It is now known as Kew Magazine. Illustrations for The Botanical Magazine have always been revered - for their scientific accuracy as well as their beauty.

This striking hand-coloured Primula illustration is in fine condition. The accompanying text for this plate is also available. Page size is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches).