William Curtis Azalea Nudiflora, variety Coccinea. Scarlet Azalea c1792.

by William Curtis

Azalea Conninea (Cistus virginiana) "The original fpecies, found abundantly in the more fouthern parts of North-America,... Brilliancy of colour and a happy combination of form, unite in rendering the variety here figured, one of the moft beautiful plants in nature." (In Britain hundreds of years ago, "f" used to be used instead of "s".)

Stunning original colour copperplate engraving for William Curtis's The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London c1792.

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 azalea illustration is in fine condition, with the descriptive text. Page size is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches).