William Curtis first edition hand-coloured engraving. Centaurea (Woad) c1787.

by William Curtis

Centaurea Glastifolia antique print. Woad Leaves produce Blue Dye.

Original hand-coloured copperplate engraving for The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London circa 1787 by William Curtis for the first edition of Illustrations for his Botanical Magazine. These beautiful engravings have been revered for their scientific accuracy, and the natural pigments used in the early engravings have survived over two hundred years, ensuring their beauty endures. 

Publication of The Botanical Magazine was begun in 1787 by William Curtis (1746-1799) Praefectus Hortis of Chelsea Physic Garden in London, “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.

Size of page 23 x 15cm (9 x 6 inches). There is very faint age discolouration at left on this lovely botanical illustration. Accompanying text is available.