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Antique Botanical Print of Gloriosa Superba, Poisson Plant or Flame Lily, c.1821

About the Item

Antique botanical print titled 'Méthonique Superbe'. This print shows the Gloriosa Superba, also known as flame lily, climbing lily, creeping lily, glory lily, gloriosa lily, tiger claw, the Poison Plant, agnishikha and fire lily. it is a species of flowering plant in the family Colchicaceae. This print originates from 'Phytographie Medicale' by Joseph Roques. Engraved by Édouard Auguste Patrice Hocquart. Published circa 1821. Édouard Auguste Patrice Hocquart (1789–1870), frequently cited as L. F. J. Hoquart, was a French publisher, writer, artist and engraver, noted for his colour plates illustrating Joseph R. Roques's (1772–1850) materia medica publication Phytographie médicale of 1821–1824. More about the flower: The Gloriosa Superba, also known as the flame lily, is special for several reasons: 1. **Unique Flower Shape and Coloration**: Its most striking feature is its vibrant, exotic flowers. The petals are dramatically elongated and curl back upon themselves, creating a visual effect reminiscent of flames. This distinctive shape, combined with its fiery color palette of red, yellow, and orange, makes it a standout among flowering plants. 2. **Versatility in Climbing**: It is a climbing plant, using tendrils at the tips of its leaves to grasp and climb over other plants and structures. This climbing ability allows it to spread and showcase its beautiful flowers at varying heights and positions, adding a dynamic element to its surroundings. 3. **Medicinal and Toxic Properties**: The Gloriosa Superba contains colchicine, a substance used in medicine, especially for treating gout and familial Mediterranean fever. However, this same compound makes the plant highly toxic if ingested, earning it the nickname "Poison Plant." Its dual nature as both a medicinal plant and a toxic entity adds an intriguing aspect to its character. 4. **Cultural and Symbolic Significance**: In various cultures, the flame lily holds significant symbolic value. It is the national flower of Zimbabwe and is also highly regarded in Indian traditions. Its vibrant appearance and rarity have made it a symbol of beauty, strength, and transformation in different cultural contexts. 5. **Endangered Status**: Its beauty and medicinal properties have led to overharvesting and habitat destruction, making the flame lily a vulnerable or endangered species in some regions. Its special status calls for conservation efforts to ensure its survival for future generations to appreciate and study. These characteristics combine to make the Gloriosa Superba a fascinating and special flower, celebrated for its stunning appearance, medicinal value, and the caution required due to its toxicity.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 12.13 in (30.8 cm)Width: 8.78 in (22.3 cm)Depth: 0.02 in (0.5 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c.1821
  • Condition:
    Age-related toning. Minor wear, blank verso. Please study image carefully.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13584-61stDibs: LU3054338353592
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