Rare engraving. Purple Iris of New South Wales, c1800.

by Harrison Cluse & Co

Small antique print from 18thC drawing. Australian Iris.

"Not a single syllable of intelligence to accompany the drawing of this plant; we can only say, that it appears, to us, as evidently one of the numerous species of the Iris, or Flower de Luce, the celebrated Fleur de Lis of the French. Certain we are, that it is a production of New South Wales, and that the drawing is strictly correct."

Original copperplate engraving with contemporary hand-colour from the Naturalist's Pocket Magazine; or, Compleat Cabinet of Curiosities and Beauties of Nature, containing elegant coloured prints of birds, fishes, flowers, insects, quadrupeds, shells, and other natural productions..", eight anonymously compiled books published in London between 1798 and 1802 by Harrison, Cluse & Co. No.78 Fleet Street, and from 1800, No.108 Newgate Street. This small engraving was one of 18 depicting Australian flora.

This engraving has age-soiling with slight offset printing from the previously adjacent page, but is otherwise in good condition. The page measures 150 x 85mm (approximately 6 x 3 3/8 inches). The accompanying 4 pages of text are available.