About this sheet
A beautiful original antique botanical chromolithograph depicting Pisonia sylvestris T. & B. and Pisonia alba Spink, tropical trees commonly known as the White Birdcatcher Tree or Lettuce Tree. Native to Southeast Asia and the islands of the Pacific, these elegant species are admired for their striking foliage, delicate clusters of fragrant flowers, and graceful tropical habit.
The illustration contrasts the fresh pale-golden young leaves with the mature deep green foliage, accompanied by finely executed botanical studies of the flowers and reproductive structures. The harmonious composition and subtle coloration make this one of the most sophisticated foliage studies from Berthe Hoola van Nooten's celebrated botanical publication.
The artwork was painted from life on the island of Java by the distinguished Dutch botanical artist Berthe Hoola van Nooten (1817–1892). It was published in her masterpiece, Fleurs, Fruits et Feuillages Choisis de l'Ile de Java, widely regarded as one of the finest nineteenth-century botanical publications devoted to the flora of the Dutch East Indies. Printed in rich chromolithography by P. De Pannemaeker of Ghent, this plate was issued in the third edition published in Brussels by Librairie Européenne C. Muquardt around 1880.
The common name "Birdcatcher Tree" refers to the sticky fruits produced by many Pisonia species, which can adhere to birds and aid seed dispersal. Despite this unusual characteristic, the trees are highly valued as ornamental specimens for their lush tropical foliage and attractive branching habit, and are widely cultivated throughout Indonesia and other tropical regions.
This is an original antique print, printed circa 1880, and not a modern reproduction or later copy.
Publication:
Fleurs, Fruits et Feuillages Choisis de l'Ile de Java
Printer:
P. De Pannemaeker, Ghent
Medium:
Original chromolithograph on wove paper.
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related toning, occasional foxing and light handling wear consistent with age. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Please note that any framed images are for display inspiration only. The print is sold unframed. Framed mock-ups are not always shown to exact scale and are intended solely to illustrate how the artwork may look when displayed.
This is a refined foliage plate rather than a spectacular flowering or fruit subject. Its elegant composition and subtle color palette make it highly decorative for contemporary interiors, while its botanical importance and rarity justify the price.
