Theobroma Cacao – Cocoa Tree Botanical Lithograph c.1863
This antique botanical print depicts Theobroma cacao, known as the cacao tree or cocoa tree, the tropical plant from which cocoa beans are harvested to produce chocolate. The lithograph shows a detailed, naturalistic branch bearing a large ripe red cacao pod with its ribbed surface, along with unripe green pods and lush elliptical leaves with prominent veins. Surrounding the main illustration are finely rendered scientific details, including flower structures, seed forms, and cross-sections of the cacao pod, revealing its internal compartments filled with cocoa beans embedded in white pulp.
This lithograph originates from ‘Fleurs, fruits et feuillages choisis de la flore et de la pomone de l' Ile de Java peints d'après nature’ by Berthe Hoola Van Nooten, published between 1863 and 1864. Berthe Hoola Van Nooten was a Dutch botanical artist who lived in Java (Indonesia) and created this beautiful series of tropical plant illustrations for European audiences. Her works stand out for their scientific accuracy combined with artistic elegance, capturing the beauty and botanical structure of each species she painted. They were lithographed in Paris by Severeyns, one of the leading chromolithographers of the time, known for producing vivid and precise botanical plates.
The technique used is chromolithography, where multiple lithographic stones were inked with different colours and carefully overlaid to create vibrant, lifelike images. This method allowed artists to reproduce the rich hues and fine details of tropical flora, making these prints both scientifically valuable and highly decorative.
Condition summary: Very good condition with strong impressions and vivid colours. Minor age-toning and a few small worm holes at the top, no tears or repairs. Paper remains firm and well-preserved.
Framing tips: A light cream or pale green mount will complement the natural botanical colours. For framing, choose a simple teak, walnut, or gold frame to match its tropical and classical aesthetic. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the delicate chromolithographic pigments over time.
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