William Curtis Ranuncula Gramineus, Grass-leaved Crowfoot copper engraving c1791.

by Edwards, Sydenham

Ranuncula, hand-coloured copperplate-engraving by Sydenham Edwards for Curtis's first edition of The Botanical Magazine; or Flower-Garden Displayed published in London c1791. Between 1788 and 1815, Welsh natural history artist Sydenham Teast Edwards (1768-1819), did most of the botanical illustrations for Curtis's Botanical Magazine after William Curtis discovered his talents and contracted him to work for him in London. 

This lovely flower was "from the dry pastures of the South of France and Italy". Curtis wrote that "..they have probably fallen victims to the rage for novelty, at the shrine of which many a fair and goodly flower is yearly sacrificed." 

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 over 230 years. It is now known as The Kew Magazine. Illustrations for The Botanical Magazine have always been revered - for their scientific accuracy as well as their beauty.

This finely engraved illustration is in fine condition. The accompanying text for this plate is also available. Size of page is approximately 240 x 140mm (9 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches).