About this sheet
Antique Botanical Engraving – Yellow Flower & Pink Bladder Senna, Pflanzen CXXXVII
This finely executed hand-colored botanical engraving depicts two flowering plants presented in detailed scientific study, issued as Plate CXXXVII (Pflanzen CXXXVII / Plantes CXXXVII). The composition reflects the late 18th–early 19th century tradition of European botanical illustration, where clarity, accuracy, and aesthetic balance were combined to document plant species for scholarly reference.
The plant shown on the left is commonly identified as Arnica montana, a medicinal alpine species recognizable by its bright yellow composite flower, opposite leaves, and exposed root system. Arnica was widely studied and valued in early botanical and medical literature for its therapeutic properties, making it a frequent subject in pharmacological and botanical works.
On the right, the plate illustrates Bladder Senna (Colutea arborescens), identifiable by its pinnate leaves, delicate pinkish pea-like flowers, and characteristic inflated seed pods. This ornamental shrub, native to southern Europe, was admired for both its decorative qualities and its botanical interest, particularly the distinctive bladder-shaped pods that give the plant its common name.
Both plants are shown with roots, stems, leaves, and flowers carefully delineated, allowing close examination of structure and growth. The hand-applied coloring enhances the naturalism of the illustration, with soft greens, warm yellows, and muted pink tones applied in a restrained and scholarly manner. The bilingual German–French headings indicate the international audience for which such botanical plates were produced during this period of expanding scientific exchange.
Originally issued in botanical compendia intended for botanists, physicians, and educated collectors, plates like this are now valued for their historical importance and visual elegance. The balanced arrangement of two distinct species on a single sheet makes this print particularly appealing to collectors of botanical art, natural history enthusiasts, and interior designers seeking refined, nature-inspired wall decoration.
Condition report:
Good condition. Original hand coloring. Noticeable age toning and patina throughout, with scattered foxing and light surface marks consistent with age. Minor edge wear and small discolorations visible. No modern restoration observed.
Framing tips:
This botanical plate is well suited to a classic museum-style presentation. A soft ivory or light parchment mat will complement the aged paper and gentle coloration, paired with a natural walnut, light oak, or ebonized frame. UV-protective glazing is recommended to preserve the original hand coloring and paper.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving
Maker: European school, late 18th–early 19th century
Keywords:
antique botanical print, hand colored engraving, Pflanzen CXXXVII, Plantes CXXXVII, Arnica montana, arnica flower, bladder senna, Colutea arborescens, antique plant illustration, botanical engraving, medicinal plants, herbal illustration, 18th century botanical, 19th century botanical print, natural history art, scientific illustration, vintage botanical art, collectible print, floral wall art, interior design artwork, classic botany
