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Purple Chinese houses, Collinsia heterophylla
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Purple Chinese houses, Collinsia heterophylla
Purple Chinese houses, Collinsia heterophylla.. Handcolored copperplate engraving after a botanical illustration from Sydenham Edwards The Botanical Register, London, Ridgway, 1835
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Media ID 14207485
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
Botanicalillustration California Sydenhamedwards Thebotanicalregister
EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning handcolored copperplate engraving, titled "Collinsia heterophylla, or Purple Chinese Houses," is an exquisite example of botanical art from the 19th century. The image was created as a part of Sydenham Edwards' The Botanical Register, published in London by Ridgway between 1833 and 1842. Collinsia heterophylla, commonly known as Purple Chinese Houses or Californian Collinsia, is a beautiful wildflower native to the western United States and Mexico. The plant is characterized by its tall spikes of vibrant purple flowers, which bloom in the late spring and early summer. The name "Chinese Houses" refers to the distinctive shape of the flower's calyx, which resembles the roofs of traditional Chinese houses. The botanical illustration was created using the copperplate engraving technique, which involves etching the design onto a copper plate and then covering it with a ground, a mixture of ashes and rosin. The plate is then inked and wiped, leaving the engraved lines filled with ink and the surrounding areas free of ink. The image is then hand-colored using watercolors or other pigments, resulting in a rich, detailed, and lifelike representation of the plant. This particular print is a rare and valuable historical artifact, providing a glimpse into the world of botanical exploration and documentation during the Victorian era. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the engraving showcase the skill and artistry of the botanical illustrators and engravers of the time. The image is also a reminder of the importance of preserving natural history and documenting the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
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