Antique Vanilla Botanical Print, Vanilla Aromatica, 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-14181-28

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. No structural damage.

About this sheet

Antique Vanilla Botanical Print, Vanilla Aromatica, Hand Colored, c.1831

This highly decorative botanical engraving depicts Vanilla Aromatica, showing both the flowering vine and developing pods. Vanilla was among the most prized flavoring agents of the 19th century, closely associated with tropical cultivation and international trade.

The plate originates from Zenker’s Merkantilische Waarenkunde and exemplifies the publication’s focus on luxury commodities of botanical origin. The composition combines botanical precision with strong visual storytelling, making it one of the standout images in the series.

Original hand coloring is rich yet controlled, with fresh greens and softly colored pods that give the plate exceptional wall presence. This engraving is particularly attractive for kitchens, dining spaces, and refined interior settings.

Condition report:
Moderate age-related toning and light surface dirt. No structural damage.

Framing tips:
An ivory mat paired with a dark wood or black frame enhances the elegance and contrast of the image.