William Curtis Gladiolus communis, Common Corn-Flag. Gladioli c1789.

by William Curtis

William Curtis first edition hand-coloured botanical antique print.

Original hand-coloured copperplate engraving for William Curtis's first edition of The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London circa 1789. 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.

Beautifully engraved and hand-coloured, this antique print is in fine condition - with the added bonus of the original accompanying text. Page size approximately 235 x 145mm (9 1/4 x 5 3/4 inches). To the intaglio impression measures 200 x 115mm (7 7/8 x 4 1/2 inches)