Sweet Pl. 1940 [Nemophila]

Sweet. Pl 1940 [Nemophila]. From Cistineae By Robert Sweet, F.L.S. 

London: James Ridgway, 169-170 Piccadilly, 1837. 6 3/4 x 9 1/2 (Plate mark) Octavo.  Steel engravings by S. Watts.  Original full hand color.

From one of many publications by the prolific naturalist author, Robert Sweet, this charming and richly colored engraving truly captures the essence of a flower in full bloom.  Each blossom in this series presents a striking and detailed example for both the serious horticulturist and the casual amateur. 

Not only are the eye-catching blossoms accurately depicted, but also the important bulb or root system, foliage, and the “interior segments.”  This is indeed a delightful example of meticulous early nineteenth century natural history illustration.