Description
Exclusive Limited Edition Botanical Print – Hyosciamus, Auricula and Thlaspi from Volume I of the 1st Duchess of Beaufort’s florilegium.
The Hyosciamus (meaning ‘hog-bean’ in botanical Latin) in the centre of this plate was used medicinally for pain. The Duchess favoured the beautifully depicted auricula on the left, growing it for decorative purposes. The Thlaspi on the right was meant to have had anti-inflammatory and fever reducing properties.
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 June 2024, for the first time in 300 years, the public had the opportunity to view these exquisite works of art. The exhibition provided a rare glimpse into the Duchess’s phenomenal botanical collection. So seize the chance to purchase your exclusive limited edition print and bring botanical history into your home. These timeless artworks showcase the diverse flora Duchess Mary nurtured and highlight her profound influence on scientific exploration as well as her cultural appreciation of nature.
These exclusive limited edition botanical prints will enchant any bedroom wall and make wonderful gifts.
