Roberts, Nellie “Catt. Labiata Lilacina. 1897”

Nellie Roberts. “Catt. Labiata Lilacina. 1897” [orchid]. 

1897.  10 1/2 x 7 1/4 (full sheet).  Initialed in ink “N.R.”  Watercolor painting.  Initialed in ink.  Watercolor has been professionally conserved by removing it from an acidic artist’s board, deacidified and backed with acid free tissue to preserve it.  Very good condition.

Nellie Roberts (1872- 1959) was an English botanical and scientific illustrator and the first and longest serving orchid artist for the Royal Horticultural Society.  She was also commissioned by other orchid societies and by private individuals who grew orchids.  It is estimated Roberts made at least 4,500 orchid illustrations and she  earned a Gold medal from the Royal Horticultural Society in 1900. 

A signature on the verso of the old backing board was “J. Kromer.”  Most likely, this is a “Mr. Kromer” from Roriama Nursery in West Croydon and who is known to have lectured on orchids.    This exquisite watercolor accurately shows the structure and color of this particular specimen.  An absolutely lovely work of art.