Browallia elata, Tall Browallia. William Curtis first edition c1787.

by William Curtis

Antique print. Delicately drawn and engraved by James Sowerby.

Hand-coloured copperplate engraving for William Curtis's first edition of The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London circa 1790. 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.

This delicate little plant is beautifully portrayed. In very good condition despite top right corner damage and faint offsetting. The page (and text) is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches).