HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS ... : Fritillaria V; Festus [and] Fritillaria VI; Bellinde (print)

Original hand-coloured engraving drawn by J. C. Keller and executed by J. M. Seligmann. Leaf measures 19.9 x 14.2 inches (50.5 x 36 cm). Fine condition. Matted and ready for framing. From Christoph Trew's magnificent HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS OMNEM PER ANNUM SUPERBIENS FLORIBUS published in three volumes over a 36 year period from 1750-1786. Painted in a more opaque gouche to resemble a painting rather than the traditional use of water-colours that allowed more of the engraving to show through. Each piece is meant to capture the flower at the peak of it's beauty instead of focusing solely on scientific detail. Several artists from different European nations were involved in this project giving a multi-ethnic flavour to the complete work. HORTUS NITIDISSIMIS is considered to be one of the most sumptuous of the florigelia. Being one of the most elusive of the great flower books, the opportunity to own one of these leaves is reserved for only the most discriminating collectors.