Botanical Plate 16
1809
This exquisite botanical plate captures the delicate beauty of Rhexia glutinosa, featuring vibrant purple blooms with striking yellow stamens that seem to reach out from the page. Created around 1809 during the golden age of scientific exploration, it reflects the meticulous observation style associated with Alexander von Humboldt's famous expeditions. The detailed dissections at the bottom reveal the plant's anatomy, showing how scientists of the Romantic era sought to understand nature's intricate machinery. Though often linked to Humboldt, the actual drawing was likely done by the talented botanical artist Pierre-Jean-François Turpin, whose work helped bring the flora of the New World to European audiences.
- Technique
- Hand-colored engraving
- Material
- Paper
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