Colorful Botanical Flower Prints from Book of Worlds, 1800s, Print, Set of 4

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Set of Four Colorful Botanical Flower Prints from Book of Worlds, circa 1850 This beautifully preserved set of four hand-colored … Read more Set of Four Colorful Botanical Flower Prints from Book of Worlds, circa 1850 This beautifully preserved set of four hand-colored botanical lithographs originates from the mid-19th century German natural history publication Book of Worlds (Buch der Welt), produced around 1850. Known for its scientifically accurate and artistically refined illustrations, the Book of Worlds combined educational content with decorative appeal, making it a favorite among scholars, collectors, and lovers of botanical art. These four plates depict a vibrant variety of flowering plants, with particular attention to different plant families, floral forms, and natural groupings. The first plate is a cheerful composition featuring numerous species of daisies and sunflowers, primarily from the Asteraceae family. with their warm yellows, soft whites, and deep purples, the arrangement highlights both cultivated and wild varieties, each labeled with precision. The second print, titled *Leguminosen*, features an array of flowering legumes, including richly colored blossoms in blue, yellow, and red. Among them are likely representations of lupines, laburnum, and perhaps clover relatives. This grouping pays homage to plants valued for their agricultural importance and vibrant inflorescence. The third print presents a selection of rare and exotic lilies and crocus-like flowers, characterized by spotted petals, twisted leaves, and deep structural complexity. These species, potentially drawn from alpine or woodland origins, reflect the period’s fascination with floricultural diversity and plant collecting expeditions. The final lithograph, dated 1863, features an elaborate honeysuckle or caprifoliaceous plant with tubular, crimson blossoms and pale, pink-flushed buds. Accompanying the central cluster are detailed black-and-white anatomical studies of flower buds and seed pods, enhancing the scientific depth of the image. These lithographs were created during a golden era of botanical exploration and printmaking. Their precision and charm reflect the work of talented illustrators who collaborated with naturalists to document Earth’s flora. Today, these plates remain valued for both their artistic quality and their window into 19th-century scientific thought. Condition Report: All four prints are in good condition with clean margins, strong plate impressions, and vivid original hand-coloring. Minor foxing or toning consistent with age. No tears or repairs visible. Paper remains firm and stable. Framing Tips: Frame using a soft cream or ivory mat with a subtle gold or warm yellow inner border to echo the tones in the artwork. Choose a simple natural wood or antique gilt frame. Use UV-protective glass to preserve the delicate coloring for decades. See less