About the Artist
Amanda Almira Newton was an American botanical illustrator renowned for her precise fruit studies created in the early 20th century. Her illustrations were commissioned by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, serving both scientific documentation and agricultural advancement. Newton’s work remains a benchmark in the tradition of pomological art, valued by collectors and historians alike. For more from this artist, browse our Amanda Almira Newton collection.
Her legacy endures in the clarity and accuracy she brought to each subject, bridging the worlds of science and decorative art.
The Artwork
Created in 1908, this illustration of Citrus nobilis reflects a period when detailed botanical images were essential for cataloguing fruit varieties and supporting agricultural research. The mandarin citrus depicted here was part of a broader effort to document and celebrate the diversity of cultivated fruits in America. This vintage print embodies the intersection of scientific inquiry and appreciation for everyday natural beauty.
As a historical document, it connects the viewer to the evolution of fruit cultivation and the role of illustration in agricultural history.
Style & Characteristics
The artwork features a single mandarin fruit with attached leaves, rendered in warm orange and green hues. The composition is centered and uncluttered, with ample negative space on a softly aged beige background that highlights the specimen. Fine lines and gentle shading give the fruit a lifelike presence, while the overall effect is calm, refined, and archival.
This botanical print’s subtle palette and precise detail make it both visually appealing and scientifically informative.
In Interior Design
This botanical print is especially suited to kitchens, dining spaces, or breakfast nooks, where its subject matter naturally complements daily rituals. It pairs well with light woods, natural textiles, and simple ceramics for a relaxed, cultivated atmosphere.
For a cohesive look, consider displaying it among other botanical prints or with orange-toned wall art to create a sunlit, harmonious gallery wall.
