Botanical Illustration of Begonia Rex with Flowers, 1854-1855 Lithograph Print
€ 140
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1854
Sheet size
24 × 16 cm (9.4 × 6.3 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13748-19
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
The condition of this print is good, with vibrant colors and clear details that have been well-preserved over time. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scans carefully.
About this sheet
Botanical Illustration of Begonia rex with Flowers, 1854-1855 Lithograph Print
This exquisite lithograph with original hand coloring features the plant Begonia rex, commonly known in English as the "King Begonia." Created between 1854 and 1855, this artwork is part of the renowned botanical publication Flore des Serres et des Jardins de l'Europe by Louis van Houtte, a distinguished Belgian horticulturist of the nineteenth century.
Van Houtte, known for his extensive plant collection, employed collectors to find rare and exotic plants worldwide. He then illustrated these discoveries, with many, like the Begonia rex, becoming iconic for their ornamental appeal.
This particular illustration highlights the striking foliage of the Begonia rex, with heart-shaped leaves and delicate pink flowers, a plant native to the humid, warm climates and commonly found in greenhouse settings.
The technique used for this illustration is lithography, a popular method in the 19th century for its ability to produce fine details and allow hand-coloring.
The print measures 24 x 16 cm (9.5 x 6.5 inches) and is in good condition, showcasing the vibrant colors and fine lines characteristic of high-quality botanical prints of the era.
The careful rendering of textures and colors reflects the meticulous craftsmanship of the time, aimed at both scientific accuracy and aesthetic appeal.
