Antique Botanical Print of Thea Chinensis, Hand Colored, c.1831

€ 1 090

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-14181-13

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 toning and surface marks consistent with age. Image remains clear and intact.

About this sheet

Antique Tea Botanical Print, Thea Chinensis, Hand Colored, c.1831

This elegant botanical engraving depicts Thea chinensis, the tea plant, one of the most influential commodities in global economic and cultural history. The composition presents the plant with refined clarity, highlighting leaves and branching structure essential to understanding tea cultivation.

The plate comes from Zenker’s Merkantilische Waarenkunde, a publication aimed at documenting plants that shaped international trade. Tea was central to commerce between Asia and Europe and played a defining role in colonial policy, taxation, and consumption habits.

Original hand coloring is delicately applied, emphasizing the fresh greens of the foliage while maintaining a restrained, sophisticated appearance. The vertical format and balanced design give the plate excellent decorative presence, making it particularly desirable for both collectors and interior designers.

Condition report:
Moderate age-related toning and minor surface marks. No damage or losses.

Framing tips:
A pale ivory or light gray mat with a simple dark wood or black frame provides a refined contrast.