19th Century Botanical Lithograph of Aphelandra Porteana by Louis van Houtte
This is a botanical illustration of Aphelandra porteana, a plant commonly known as Zebra Plant, due to the striking patterns on its leaves. This lithograph, measuring 24 x 16 cm (9.5 x 6.5 inches), was created in 1854-1855.
The work comes from "Flore des Serres et des Jardins de l'Europe," a renowned publication by Louis van Houtte, a distinguished 19th-century Belgian horticulturist. Van Houtte was well-known for employing plant collectors who traveled globally to source diverse and exotic plants. He then showcased these plants in his celebrated work, which featured intricate illustrations of the most beautiful specimens.
The Aphelandra porteana depicted in this print is native to Brazil, typically found in warm, humid environments such as greenhouses ("serre chaude").
The technique used here is lithography with original hand coloring, a method that involves printing from a stone or metal plate and then enhancing the print with meticulous hand-applied colors. The condition of this print is good, with vibrant colors and clear details that have been well-preserved over time.
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