Marine Life · 19th century
€ 120
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
In very good antique condition with strong original colours and light edge wear.
Corsican Betony and Coral Bead Plant, hand-coloured botanical print, 1874
This elegant 19th-century hand-coloured botanical print features two striking alpine species: Corsican Betony (Stachys corsica) and Coral Bead Plant (Nertera scapanioides). Published in 1874 as part of the second series of Alpine Plants by George Bell & Sons in London, this print is a beautiful example of Victorian-era botanical illustration where scientific detail meets artistic refinement.
The upper image displays Corsican Betony, a compact, soft-leaved plant with pale pink, lipped flowers. Native to the mountainous landscapes of Corsica, it is valued for its ornamental foliage and delicate floral display. Below it is the Coral Bead Plant, a creeping groundcover best known for its vibrant orange berries that cluster densely among small round leaves. Its bold colour and texture make it a true visual delight.
Each print in this series was created using lithography and then hand-coloured with meticulous care, resulting in subtle variations that give every piece a unique charm. The colours remain vivid, especially the contrast between the cool pinks and bright oranges against the pale background. The paper is thick and has a natural off-white tone, with generous margins around the artwork, ideal for display.
This print is perfect for framing and would suit a botanical, classical, or natural interior setting. It also makes a thoughtful gift for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, or collectors of antique prints.
Condition summary and framing tips:
In very good antique condition with strong original colours and light edge wear. Best framed with an off-white or soft ivory mat and a natural wood or antique gold frame to highlight the warm tones of the artwork.
