William Curtis spectacular Stapelia Variegata Cactus Succulent, c1790

by William Curtis

William Curtis Variegated Stapelia. Sowerby hand-coloured antique print.

Original hand-coloured copperplate engraving by James Sowerby for William Curtis's first edition of The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London c1790. 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 for nearly 240 years - now known as Kew Magazine.

This engraving, hundreds of years old, is in fine condition except for tiny dint centre top. Page size approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches).