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Asaragus from Sowerbys English Botany, London
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Asaragus from Sowerbys English Botany, London
Asparagus plant with root, flower and fruit, Asparagus officinalis. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from a drawing by James Sowerby for James Smiths English Botany, London, 1796. Sowerby was a tireless illustrator of natural history books and illustrated books on botany, mycology, conchology and geology
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Media ID 23202800
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Asparagus Officinalis Root Sowerby Vegetable Asperge Smith
EDITORS COMMENTS
This hand-colored copperplate engraving, created by James Sowerby in 1796 for James Smith's English Botany, showcases the intricate details of the Asparagus plant (Asparagus officinalis). The image beautifully illustrates various aspects of the plant, including its edible root system, delicate flowers, and ripe fruit. Sowerby, a prolific illustrator of natural history books, meticulously captured the unique characteristics of this plant species. The image begins with the asparagus root system, which is depicted as a tangled mass of fibrous roots, demonstrating the plant's extensive underground network. The root system plays a crucial role in the plant's growth and nutrient absorption. The engraving then transitions to the asparagus spears, which emerge from the ground, and are shown in various stages of development. The spears are slender and elegant, with a subtle sheen from the hand-applied watercolors. The image also reveals the tiny flowers that develop at the tips of the spears, which eventually give way to the small, red-purple berries. Sowerby's exceptional drawing skills are evident in the intricate details of the asparagus flowers, which are depicted with remarkable accuracy. The delicate petals, stamens, and pistils are all rendered with exquisite detail, providing a fascinating glimpse into the botanical world of the asparagus plant. This image not only showcases the beauty of the asparagus plant but also serves as a testament to Sowerby's remarkable talent as an illustrator. His dedication to accurately recording the natural world continues to captivate and inspire viewers over two centuries later.
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