Botany
€ 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
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.
Large-Leaf Rhododendron Botanical Illustration by Louis van Houtte, 19th Century
This illustration features *Rhododendron macrocarpum*, commonly known as the Large-Leaf Rhododendron, showcasing the plant's prominent foliage and unopened flower buds.
The artwork, measuring approximately 24 x 16 cm (9.5 x 6.5 inches), is part of the distinguished "Flore des Serres et des Jardins de l'Europe," a series by Louis van Houtte, a notable 19th-century Belgian horticulturist. Van Houtte's botanical works are known for their precise and detailed illustrations, depicting a variety of plant species with scientific accuracy and artistic finesse.
The Rhododendron macrocarpum depicted in this illustration is native to the Himalayas, as indicated by the label "Himalaya." The plant is characterized by its large, leathery leaves with pronounced veining, typical of many rhododendron species. The illustration also includes a detailed view of the plant's flower buds, emphasizing the structure and form before blooming.
The term "plein air" suggests that this rhododendron thrives in outdoor conditions, typical of its natural mountainous habitat.
The lithograph is produced in monochrome, using the lithography technique to capture the fine details of the leaf texture and bud structure.
The print is well-preserved, with the lines and shading clear and distinct, reflecting the quality of Louis van Houtte's botanical illustrations and the meticulous care taken in their preservation.
