About this sheet
Phalaenopsis Casta Orchid – Reichenbachia Plate 87, c.1888
An exquisite hand-colored lithograph of Phalaenopsis casta, published as Plate 87 from the legendary orchid series Reichenbachia: Orchids Illustrated and Described by Frederick Sander, produced between 1888 and 1894. This elegant botanical plate captures the purity and grace of the white Phalaenopsis orchid, sometimes called the "bridal orchid" for its association with refined beauty and delicate poise.
The illustration shows a gracefully arching flower spike bearing large, immaculate white blooms with subtle pink and yellow markings at the center of each flower. The blossoms are set against a soft, atmospheric background that enhances their luminous quality. The moss-covered root ball and verdant, leathery leaves are rendered in fine botanical detail, emphasizing the natural poise of this epiphytic orchid species.
This work was drawn from life by the celebrated botanical artist Henry Moon (1857–1905), whose sensitive eye and watercolor technique are evident in the ethereal rendering of light and form. The lithograph was executed by Gustav Leutzsch of Chorleywood, one of the principal craftsmen behind this monumental series.
Reichenbachia was a passion project of Henry Frederick Conrad Sander—nurseryman, publisher, and collector—who invested heavily in producing one of the most luxurious and ambitious orchid books of the 19th century. The plates were issued in both folio and imperial folio formats, each orchid shown life-sized, colored by hand or fine chromolithography, and often accompanied by multilingual text. The work honored Heinrich Gustav Reichenbach, a leading 19th-century orchidologist.
Today, Reichenbachia plates are considered masterpieces of botanical illustration, admired for their artistic beauty and historical significance. This particular print is an ideal acquisition for collectors of rare flower prints, orchid lovers, and interior decorators seeking a serene and elegant floral statement.
Condition report:
Good condition. Mild age toning and a few faint foxing marks, mostly confined to the margins. Colors remain soft and clean. No tears or repairs. Blank verso.
Framing tips:
This serene composition pairs beautifully with a white, cream, or silver frame. Float mounting on a soft gray or pale green mat will enhance the orchid’s luminosity while preserving its vintage charm.
