1801 Jerusalem Sage, Bessa, folio stipple engraving, hand colour, botany

The name Phlomis derives from a Greek word for "flame", and may refer to the leaves' use in ancient times as lamp wicks. Common names include Jerusalem sage and lampwick plant.

Bessa, P. (illus). 

Jerry (engraved by). 

Paris ca. 1801- 1819. 

Stipple engraving printed in color with added hand colour

Sheet 39.3 x 25.1 cm

An exquisite example of French botanical art at its high point in the early nineteenth century, this fine print is by Pancrace Bessa (a contemporary of P.J. Redoute), interpreted in the delicate medium of stipple engraving by Gabriel. It was published in "Traite des Arbres et Arbustes que l'on cultive en france en pleine terre. Seconde edition 'nouveau Duhamel' considerablement augmentee" (Dunthorne 243), a multi volume work documenting trees and shrubs cultivated in France and a showcase for the artistry of P.J. Redoute and Pancrace Bessa.

Very light offsetting.