Monarda floribus capitatis et verticillatis... by MONARDA / OSWEGO TEA) Trew, Christoph Jacob. Ehret, Georg Dionysius (illus). Engraved by Johann Jacob Haid - 1750-1773.

1750-1773.. Handcolored engraving, image 17 x 11 1/2 on sheet 21 1/2 x 14 inches. Very good condition on fine laid paper. This outstanding example of botanical art by the great 18th century botanical artist Georg Dionysius Ehret, one of the finest botanical artists of all time, was engraved by Johann Jacob Haid and published in PLANTAE SELECTAE by Christopher Jacob Trew and Benedict Christian Vogel (plate XLIV). This remarkable work, published over the period 1750 to 1773, scientifically documents and artistically celebrates exotic plants in the collection of the Chelsea Physic Garden in London and other collectors at a time when the collection, cultivation and documentation of exotic flowers was popular among the upper strata of European society. Ehret trained as a gardener, but his talent as a botanical artist was noted and put to work by wealthy patrons including the physician and botanist Dr. Trew. (Nissen 1997; Great Flower Books, p.78; Dunthorne 309). The plates were engraved and handcolored by J.J. and J.E. Haid. Included are fine botanical details reflecting the influence of the newly introduced Linnaean system of plant classification. .