Beautiful and complete set consisting of four original hand-colored botanical plates, which together form a calm and decorative whole. The prints originate from English Botany; or, Colored Figures of British Plants, 3rd edition, edited by John T. Boswell Syme and published in London by George Bell & Sons in 1902. The illustrations are based on the classic preliminary work by James Sowerby and JE Sowerby, whose botanical works are known for their scientific precision and clear composition.

The set shows four closely related species of chervil: common chervil, garden chervil, wild chervil and poisonous chervil. Each plate presents the plant in full figure with finely engraved stems, detailed foliage and characteristic umbels, supplemented by studies of seeds and flower parts. The colour scheme is subdued with soft green tones, bright yellow shades and discreet shading, creating a harmonious and coherent expression across the four works.

Suspended together in a square 2 × 2 composition, the panels form an elegant wall installation. The generous use of air and negative space, typical of English Botany, makes the set particularly suitable for modern, Scandinavian, country and kitchen-style interiors. An attractive choice for both collectors of historical botanical illustrations and interior design projects where authenticity and aesthetics are highly valued.

Condition

Very good antique condition. Light and even age-related patination. Minor scattered stains or faint marks may occur. The hand-colored coloring appears fresh and well-balanced.

Framing

Suitable for hanging as a quartet, either in one large frame with individual mounts or as four identical frames in a square grid. Light ivory or off-white mounts highlight the tone of the paper. Frames in natural oak, walnut or matte black work well in both classic and contemporary spaces.

Technical

Hand-colored copperplate engraving

Origin

After James Sowerby and J. E. Sowerby
England, published in London circa 1902

Antal

Sold as a set of 4

Dimensions per board

Height: 25 cm
Width: 16,7 cm
Paper thickness: about 0,2 mm