Mirabelle and St. Catherine and White Plum and Apricot, 1821, Paper

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Title: Botanical Print: Mirabelle, St. Catherine, White Plum & Apricot, 1821

Description: This beautiful botanical print features four varieties of … Read more Title: Botanical Print: Mirabelle, St. Catherine, White Plum & Apricot, 1821

Description: This beautiful botanical print features four varieties of European stone fruits: the Mirabelle plum, St. Catherine plum, White Plum (Prunus domestica), and Apricot (Prunus armeniaca).

It originates from *Le Jardin fruitier* by Louis-Claude Noisette, published in 1821, a landmark in early 19th-century horticultural art.

Noisette’s comprehensive guide to fruit trees and vines in Europe includes meticulous, hand-colored engravings that were produced with both scientific and artistic precision. In this plate, each fruit variety is depicted in various stages of growth. The top section illustrates the delicate blossoms and the distinctive small yellow Mirabelle plums, prized for their sweet flavor and used in French preserves. The St. Catherine plum, known for its rich taste and late summer ripening, is shown alongside its subtle white flowers. Below, the White Plum is captured with its fuzzy leaves and round golden fruits, while the Apricot, celebrated for its smooth texture and juicy sweetness, completes this botanical portrait. Each plant’s seeds are also included, demonstrating a dedication to thorough botanical documentation. Louis-Claude Noisette was a key figure in French horticulture during the early 19th century, and *Le Jardin fruitier* was his monumental contribution to the field. His work captured the essence of each fruit tree while providing vital cultivation and usage information for gardeners and farmers of his time. The engravings, typically printed on high-quality rag paper, highlight the precision and detail of early botanical illustration—a testament to the era’s fascination with cataloging and understanding nature’s bounty.

Condition: This antique print is in very good condition with minor age-related toning and slight edge wear, which adds a touch of authentic vintage charm. Colors remain vibrant and the paper retains its crisp texture.

Framing tips: For a classic display, pair this print with an off-white or light cream mat and a natural wood or gold frame. This will accentuate the warm botanical tones and provide a sophisticated touch to any interior space. See less