About this sheet
German Botanical Plates Umbellifers & Medicinal Plants, Stuttgart c.1890
A finely detailed and visually harmonious pair of antique botanical plates (Tafeln 55–56), published in Stuttgart circa 1890 as part of Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs by M. Fünfstück. These chromolithographs focus largely on umbellifers and medicinal plants, offering a fascinating blend of delicate floral structures, seed formations, and herbal species of both culinary and pharmacological importance.
Plate 55 presents an elegant array of umbelliferous plants, including Caraway (Carum carvi), Hemlock (Conium maculatum), Fool’s Parsley (Aethusa cynapium), Chervil (Anthriscus), and Hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium). The characteristic umbrella-like flower heads are depicted with remarkable precision, alongside seeds and root structures, highlighting the scientific intent behind the illustrations. The composition is airy and rhythmic, with slender stems and finely divided foliage creating a refined visual balance.
Plate 56 broadens the scope with a mix of herbs, shrubs, and garden plants. Recognizable species include Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa), Ivy (Hedera helix), Red Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), Gooseberry (Ribes), Houseleek (Sempervivum), and Rhodiola. The inclusion of berries, seed pods, and flowering details adds both color accents and botanical depth, making this plate particularly decorative while retaining its educational character.
Together, these prints embody the late 19th-century German approach to botanical illustration: precise, structured, and aesthetically composed. The soft natural palette—dominated by greens with subtle highlights of yellow, red, and white—makes them highly versatile for interior decoration. Whether displayed as a pair or integrated into a larger botanical grouping, they bring a calm, scholarly elegance to any space.
This is an original antique chromolithograph, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The prints are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Condition report:
Overall in good condition for age. Light, even toning consistent with late 19th-century chromolithographs. Original fold lines visible as issued. Minor spotting or faint foxing may be present. Edges show light age-related wear. Colors remain clear and well-preserved.
Framing tips:
These plates are particularly elegant when framed as a pair. Consider thin black or dark bronze frames with generous off-white mats for a refined, contemporary look, or choose warm walnut frames with ivory mats to enhance their antique character. Ideal for a vertical or side-by-side arrangement in kitchens, studies, or garden rooms.
Technique: chromolithograph
Maker: M. Fünfstück, Stuttgart, circa 1890
Keywords: antique botanical prints, German botanical plates, chromolithograph, Stuttgart 1890, Naturgeschichte des Pflanzenreichs, Fünfstück, umbellifers, medicinal plants, caraway, hemlock, fool’s parsley, chervil, hogweed, parsnip, ivy, dogwood, gooseberry, houseleek, rhodiola, herb prints, botanical wall art, natural history prints, 19th century botanical illustration, vintage botanical prints, decorative plant prints, scientific illustration
