Centuries ago, botanical paintings were considered a scientific craft. They were made to reflect reality like a picture taken today. They were meant to record, not appeal to our artistic nature. Nevertheless... over time, their aesthetic merits have made them recognized as true works of art.

From the 16th Century when the first drawings appeared, to the early 20th Century when photography took over, a select group of skilled artists created records of new discoveries. Artists went on expditions with explorers and scientists, to record and describe. Their work, for the most part, was kept in royal collections and national libraries. The decorative aspects of classic botanicals were greatly admired in ages past. Artists such as Redouté, Besler and Maria-Sybilla Mérian are now famous and their illustrations fetch astronomical prices when offered at major art auctions.

In the tradition of a craft with a history of over five centuries, Authentic Models has sponsored the training of young artists to follow in the footsteps of early European masters. Their creations are entirely hand-painted. They do not allow pre-printed patterns. No short cuts have been made in recreating early illustrations of flowers, fruits, birds and mammals. Each work is unique, and reporduction devices do not play any role in the highly specialized art they offer. Framed in cream, high-quality mat board. Protected in cello packaging, with story of Redouté.

8 x 10"