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Unfolding Mystery: The Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), 1879

About the Item

This original antique artwork reflects the meticulous work of Thomas Meehan, and the image was published by L.Prang and Company in Boston, known for their exquisite chromolithographic work in the 19th century. The book from which this plate come, "The Native Flowers and Ferns of the United States in Their Botanical, Horticultural, and Popular Aspects," serves as a testament to the rich botanical heritage of the United States and the period's appreciation for natural sciences. Title: "Unfolding Mystery: The Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus)" Description: This botanical illustration vividly captures the unique characteristics of Symplocarpus foetidus, commonly known as skunk cabbage. This perennial wetland plant is renowned for its ability to generate temperatures above the surrounding air, melting the snow around it. The first element (1) of the print shows the plant's distinctive mottled purple hood-like structure, known as a spathe, which enfolds the spadix—a spike of minute flowers. The spadix (2) is presented in cross-section, revealing the tightly packed flowers that will mature and emit a scent reminiscent of skunk, hence the name. This odor attracts pollinating insects even in the early days of spring. The illustration also details (3) the inflorescence's interior, displaying the individual flowers with their reproductive parts. Additionally, (4) the plant's detached floral components are depicted, providing a closer look at the individual flowers and their structure. The plant's large, basal, cabbage-like leaves are not shown here, as they develop after the flowers. Notably adapted to wetland environments, this plant is early to emerge in the spring, often seen pushing through the snow. The illustration showcases various developmental stages: (1) the rhizome from which the plant grows, (2) the spathe and spadix—the defining structures of the flower, and (3) a longitudinal section of the spadix displaying its numerous tiny flowers. Also depicted are (4) the separate components of the flower in greater detail. The spathe, with its deep purple and green shading, wraps protectively around the spadix, which emerges with a club-like appearance. This plant is well-known for its thermogenesis capabilities, generating heat to attract pollinators and emit a strong odor that gives the plant its common name. The detailed rendering of the roots, the texture of the spathe, and the intricate flowers speak to the artist's skill and the rich botanical diversity of the region.

Dimensions:

Height: 9.85 in (25 cm)Width: 7.09 in (18 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)

Materials and Techniques:

Paper

Period:

1870-1879

Date of Manufacture:

1879

Condition:

Good condition. Some edges a bit rough but not disturbing the image and leaving enough margin to frame these prints nicely. Aged paper with typically warm, yellowish-brown hue. Comes with text leaves.

Seller Location:

Langweer, NL

Reference Number:

Seller: BG-12277-1-151stDibs: LU3054337941112

Unfolding Mystery: The Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus), 1879

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