While our images are electronically watermarked, the antique prints themselves are not.

Ruellia strepens BNL293 $195
Each print measures approximately 15 inches by 21 1/2 inches.

This illustrious work was one of the very few Italian contributions to the great botanical works of the 18th century.  Giorgio Bonelli’s Hortus Romanus was published from 1772-1793. It is exceedingly rare, as less than 300 copies were believed to have been published, and of these, only a very few were hand coloured.

Very little is known of this work.  In fact, all descriptions on the Internet appear to have originated at the Arpad Plesch Botanical Library Sale at Sotheby’s in 1975, where 7 volumes of the original 8 of this work sold for 7,500 pounds sterling, exclusive of premium.  This same set was then sold at the famous de Belder sale for 52,800 pounds sterling with premium, and then again at Christie’s in 1997 for $167,500, with premium.  So it is exceedingly scarce, as well as expensive, and many museums do not own a full set.

Though Giorgio Bonelli, a Roman physician, is named as the author of the work, it is thought he contributed only a part of the first volume, the rest being edited by N. Martelli. The engraved plates are  by Magdalena Bouchard from drawings and specimens by Cesare Ubertini and Liberato and Constantino Sabbati.

References include Great flower Books p 79
Plesch Catalogue p62
De Belder Catalogue p39

It is the first time we have been able to secure a good selection of original hand coloured prints from this work.  The work is luxurious, on a sumptuous, thick, handmade chain lined paper with elaborate water marks on some.  Each sheet measures approximately 15 by 21 1/2 inches and is a creamy white with no foxing or other defects.  The blue borders are stunning, and the prints are hand coloured in the bold and exuberant manner of the 18th century.  It is a rare opportunity to add a few of these exceedingly scarce and dashing prints to the collection at an affordable price.

We accept credit cards & PayPal. Washington state residents pay Washington state sales tax. Shipping for this item is $12.95. Items can be combined to save on postage. International shipping is $25 for any number of prints and buyers are responsible for all customs duties. Our environment is smoke free. We pack professionally using only new materials. All items are beautifully wrapped and suitable for sending directly as gifts. You may return any item within 7 days if not satisfied. To order, you may call us at 1-888-PANTEEK, or send email to panteek@aol.com