William Curtis Gentiana Acaulis, Large Blue-Flowered Gentian c1787

by Curtis, William

William Curtis antique print of brilliant blue-coloured Gentian.

Hand-coloured copperplate engraving for The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London circa 1787 by William Curtis. Illustrations for The Botanical Magazine 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 today.

Publication of The Botanical Magazine was begun in 1786 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 over 222 years, - now as The Kew Magazine.

Fine condition except for foxing spot in left margin. Size of page 23 x 15 cm (9 x 6 inches).