About this sheet
Original Antique Botanical Chromolithograph of Yellow Saraca (Saraca declinata), c. 1880
A beautiful original antique botanical chromolithograph depicting Saraca declinata, a spectacular tropical flowering tree belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae). Closely related to the celebrated Ashoka Tree (Saraca asoca), this rare Southeast Asian species is admired for its magnificent pendulous clusters of brilliant golden-yellow blossoms, elegant foliage, and elongated seed pods.
The composition captures the tree in flower alongside detailed botanical studies of the blossom, seed, pod, and germinating seedling, reflecting the remarkable scientific accuracy and artistic refinement for which this publication is renowned. The vibrant floral display makes this one of the most decorative plates from the series.
The artwork was painted from life by the distinguished Dutch botanical artist Berthe Hoola van Nooten (1817–1892) while living on the island of Java. Her celebrated masterpiece, Fleurs, Fruits et Feuillages Choisis de l'Ile de Java, is regarded as one of the finest nineteenth-century botanical publications devoted to the extraordinary flora of the Dutch East Indies. This plate was printed in rich chromolithography by P. De Pannemaeker of Ghent and published in the third edition issued in Brussels by Librairie Européenne C. Muquardt around 1880.
Today, Saraca declinata remains a highly prized ornamental tree throughout tropical Asia, appreciated for its spectacular flowering habit and rarity in cultivation. This original print is both an important botanical record and a striking decorative work of art.
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.
