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Late spider orchid, Ophrys fuciflora
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Late spider orchid, Ophrys fuciflora
Late spider orchid, Ophrys fuciflora (Ophrys arachnites). Handcoloured lithograph from Diederich von Schlechtendals German Flora (Flora von Deutschland), Jena, 1871
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Media ID 23201556
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Deutschland Diederich Flora Ophrys Orchid Schlechtendal Spider
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite handcoloured lithograph showcases the Late Spider Orchid, Ophrys fuciflora, also known as Ophrys arachnites, a captivating and elusive beauty from the Orchidaceae family. The Late Spider Orchid is native to Europe, particularly in the Mediterranean region, and is renowned for its intricate and alluring appearance. The illustration is taken from Diederich von Schlechtendal's renowned botanical work, "Flora von Deutschland" or "Flora of Germany," published in Jena in 1871. Schlechtendal was a prominent German botanist and founder of the Botanical Garden in Dresden, and his meticulously detailed works were considered the standard reference for German flora during the late 19th century. The Late Spider Orchid is depicted in all its splendor, with its vibrant pink petals and distinctive labellum, which resembles a spider with its outstretched legs. The labellum is an essential feature of this orchid, as it helps attract pollinators, primarily hoverflies and bees, by mimicking the appearance of a female spider. The handcoloured lithograph process, a popular method for botanical illustrations during the 19th century, adds an extra layer of detail and vibrancy to the image. The intricate veining on the petals and the delicate shading on the labellum are brought to life through the skilled use of colour. This stunning botanical illustration is a testament to the beauty and intricacy of nature, as well as the remarkable skill and dedication of the botanists and illustrators of the past. It remains an invaluable resource for botanical research and a source of inspiration for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.
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