Antique Caper Botanical Print, Capparis Spinosa, Hand Colored, c.1831

€ 580

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-14181-24

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 light surface marks consistent with age. No tears or losses.

About this sheet

Antique Caper Botanical Print, Capparis Spinosa, Hand Colored, c.1831

This elegant botanical engraving illustrates Capparis Spinosa, the caper plant, featuring its distinctive foliage and flowering structure. Capers were valued in Mediterranean cuisine and trade, prized for their pungent flavor and culinary versatility.

The plate originates from Zenker’s Merkantilische Waarenkunde and demonstrates the work’s inclusion of both luxury and everyday food plants. The composition combines botanical precision with decorative grace, making it one of the more visually charming subjects in the series.

Original hand coloring enhances the delicacy of the flowers and leaves, resulting in a refined and attractive image. This plate works particularly well in kitchens, dining rooms, or Mediterranean-inspired interiors.

Condition report:
Moderate toning and light surface marks consistent with age. No tears or losses.

Framing tips:
A pale ivory or soft stone mat paired with a light wood frame emphasizes the elegance of the composition.