About the Artist
Created by an anonymous artist, this 1847 botanical plate is part of the rich nineteenth-century tradition of scientific illustration. During this era, publishers and botanical gardens commissioned skilled draftspeople to produce accurate images for the study and identification of plant species. Although many of these illustrators remain unnamed, their meticulous work played a vital role in advancing botanical knowledge and education.
The legacy of such illustrations endures today, valued both as scientific references and as decorative art. To explore more examples from this tradition, browse our science illustration posters and discover related works in our botanical prints collection.
The Artwork
Passiflora incarnata, commonly known as passionflower, has long fascinated botanists and gardeners alike. In the nineteenth century, this species was not only cultivated for its striking appearance but also admired for the symbolic meanings attributed to its unique floral structure, which some associated with religious narratives. Such interpretations contributed to the popularity of botany as a pastime, blending scientific curiosity with cultural symbolism.
This plate exemplifies the period's approach to botanical documentation, capturing the passionflower as a subject of study and contemplation. It reflects the era's enthusiasm for cataloguing the natural world and sharing discoveries through beautifully rendered illustrations.
Style & Characteristics
The composition follows the conventions of a teaching plate, with the passionflower centrally displayed and accompanied by detailed renderings of its leaves and tendrils. The artist employs precise linework and subtle shading to define the plant's structure, typical of mid-nineteenth-century engravings.
The color palette features natural greens, soft whites, and gentle pinks, giving the print a fresh and tranquil quality. The clarity and elegance of the illustration make it both informative and visually soothing, ideal for those who appreciate classic botanical art.
In Interior Design
This Passiflora incarnata print brings a sense of calm and refined detail to interiors such as bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. Its gentle colors and botanical subject complement both traditional and contemporary spaces, especially when paired with natural materials like wood or linen.
Display it with a simple mat and frame for an understated look, or combine it with other botanical prints for a cohesive gallery wall. For framing options, visit our frames collection to complete your arrangement.
