Description
Exclusive Botanical Artwork – “Aloe raised from seed from the Cape of Good Hope” from Volume I of the 1st Duchess of Beaufort’s florilegium – Limited Print Run of 300
Captioned in the florilegium as an “Aloe raised from seed from the Cape of Good Hope”, the succulent in the middle is an Aloe saponaria Haw, thought to have been introduced to England in 1727, but it was growing at Badminton decades earlier. They introduced the Aloe on the bottom left in 1727, and the plant on the lower right-hand corner, Gasteria verrucose (Miller) Duval, in 1731.
In 1703, Mary Somerset, first Duchess of Beaufort, commissioned Everard Kik, a Dutch botanical artist, to create a series of paintings. These showcased the extraordinary variety of plants she had grown from seeds sent to her from all over the world. They later bound the final collection of 178 paintings into a two-volume album, a “florilegium.” Badminton House holds the album, where Mary lived and grew many of her plants.
Reflecting on her passion for plants, Duchess Mary once wrote, “When I get into stories of plants, I know not how to get out.” Indeed, her legacy flourishes at Badminton Estate, where her early interests have shaped the stunning gardens and glasshouses that captivate visitors to this day.
In 2024, for the first time in 300 years, the public had the opportunity to view these works of art. The exhibition provided a rare glimpse into the Duchess’s phenomenal botanical collection. These timeless artworks showcase the diverse flora Duchess Mary nurtured and highlight her profound influence on scientific exploration and cultural appreciation of nature.
This exclusive limited edition print will enchant any bedroom wall and make a wonderful gift.
