William Curtis Mesembryanthemum. Dolabriforme. Hatchet-leav'd Fig-Marigold c1787.

by William Curtis

William Curtis Hatchet-leaved Fig-Marigold (Dolariforme) by James Sowerby.

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 nearly 240 years - now as Kew Magazine.

It is in fine condition considering its age. Text also available. Size of page is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches).