Botany
€ 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
The print is in very good condition with vibrant colors, clean paper, and no visible damage such as stains, foxing, or tears. Intact margins and careful matting enhance its presentation, making it well-preserved and ideal for display.
This finely hand-colored botanical print features 'Prepusa hookeriana', a striking and rare plant native to Brazil, illustrated with exceptional detail by Hoola van Houten. Carefully mounted within a brown matting board, the presentation enhances the vivid red flowers and lush green foliage while showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the artist.
Hoola van Houten was a 19th-century botanical artist celebrated for producing precise and elegant illustrations of exotic plants, which were often featured in botanical books and collections aimed at both scientists and collectors. His work exemplifies the scientific artistry of the period, when plants were recorded with both accuracy and artistic beauty.
The *Prepusa hookeriana* belongs to the Gentianaceae family and is a plant endemic to Brazil, particularly thriving in specialized, high-altitude tropical environments. Its unique crimson, bell-shaped flowers make it both a botanical rarity and an object of visual fascination. The plant’s name honors the famous British botanist Sir Joseph Hooker, giving rise to its informal name, "Hooker's Prepusa."
During the 19th century, European explorers and botanists brought attention to Brazil’s vast plant diversity, inspiring artists like van Houten to immortalize these discoveries in print. The additional sketches on this print highlight specific botanical details, underscoring its scientific purpose alongside its artistic merit.
This elegant botanical print reflects the golden age of botanical illustration, when such works served as both educational references and decorative treasures. The combination of its fine condition, historical significance, and detailed presentation makes this a timeless addition to any botanical art collection or display.
During the 19th century, botanical exploration flourished, leading to the documentation of rare flora from around the globe. This print reflects that golden age of scientific discovery and botanical artistry, blending accuracy with aesthetic elegance. Such works were both educational references and decorative treasures, celebrated for their craftsmanship and beauty.
The matting board presentation enhances this piece, making it a perfect addition to a collection of antique botanical art or a timeless display for any space.
