Chrysanthemum Art Appraisal

Framed Botanical Print of a Chrysanthemum Variety

This item is a framed botanical print, depicting a delicate flowering plant, likely a variety of chrysanthemum, alongside a vine with smaller leaves and a bud. The primary image showcases a large, intricate bloom with numerous slender petals, rendered in shades of brown and possibly muted reds, emanating from a central point. Above this bloom, a slender plant stem extends upwards and to the right, adorned with multiple ovate to lanceolate shaped leaves in a soft, grey-green hue. Further up the stem, a small, tightly formed bud, possibly reddish-purple, is visible. The print itself appears to be an engraving or etching, possibly hand-colored, on off-white or lightly toned paper, indicating an older print style commonly found in botanical illustrations from the 18th or 19th century. Below the main botanical illustration, faint, small-font text is discernible, which includes 'J. Edwards del.' (J. Edwards delineated/drawn) and 'Pub by T.Curtis St Geo. Cres. Jan 1, 1801' (Published by T. Curtis, St George's Crescent, January 1, 1801), suggesting its origin as an illustration from a botanical journal or compendium from the early 19th century. The print is housed within a mat board of a light, neutral color, possibly cream or beige, and enclosed in a glass-fronted frame. The frame is gilded, featuring a distressed or antiqued gold finish with a notable ribbed or beaded texture along the inner edge. There are no obvious signs of severe damage such as tears or significant discoloration on the print itself, though minor age-related toning of the paper is possible given its apparent age. The frame shows slight wear consistent with age and handling, but no major breaks or chips are visible, suggesting it maintains good structural integrity. The reflective surface of the glass makes a full condition assessment of the print difficult, but the visible details suggest an item of good quality and historical significance, reflecting the precise scientific and artistic standards of early botanical illustration.