Antique Bay Laurel Botanical Print, Laurus Nobilis, Hand Colored, c.1831

€ 570

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1831
Mapmaker / artist: Jonathan Carl Zenker, Germany, 1831–1832
Technique: Copper engraving with original hand coloring
Sheet size: 27.1 × 22.7 cm (10.7 × 8.9 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-14181-15

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Moderate age-related toning and light surface dirt. Overall well preserved.

About this sheet

Antique Bay Laurel Botanical Print, Laurus Nobilis, Hand Colored, c.1831

This refined botanical engraving depicts Laurus Nobilis, the bay laurel, a plant deeply rooted in Mediterranean culture, cuisine, and symbolism. The composition presents the plant with balanced foliage and botanical clarity, reflecting the classical elegance associated with laurel throughout history.

The plate originates from Zenker’s Merkantilische Waarenkunde, where bay laurel is treated as a plant of culinary and commercial relevance. Beyond its use as a spice, laurel carried symbolic associations with victory, scholarship, and authority.

Original hand coloring enhances the engraving with soft green tones and gentle shading, resulting in a calm and decorative image. This plate works especially well in kitchens, dining rooms, or classically inspired interiors.

Condition report:
Moderate age-related toning and light surface dirt. Overall well preserved.

Framing tips:
A warm cream mat paired with a natural wood or lightly gilded frame complements the classical subject matter.