Roses from The Temple of Flora
Print / Engraving on paper • After Robert John Thornton; engraved by Caldwell; published by Dr. Robert John Thornton
Style & Movement
Romanticism / Botanical Illustration
Medium & Technique
Hand-colored stipple engraving and aquatint
Creation Period
October 1, 1805 (original publication date); this specific example is a later vintage reproduction print
Dimensions & Format
Vertical rectangular print with double matting and large decorative outer frame, estimated overall dimensions approximately 24 x 28 inches
Subject Description
A lavish botanical still life featuring various blooming roses in shades of pink, white, and yellow against a dramatic, stormy sky and landscape background that includes classical architectural ruins and small birds perched near a nest.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good, indicating standard vintage framing with a retail thrift/antique store price tag visible on the lower right corner of the matting
Estimated Market Value
50 to 100 USD
Auction Estimate
30 to 60 USD
Provenance History
Acquired through retail secondary markets or thrift environments, reproducing plates originally published in London by Dr. Robert John Thornton in his monumental botanical work The Temple of Flora
Art Historical Significance
Dr. Robert John Thornton's The Temple of Flora is celebrated as one of the most magnificent and ambitious botanical books ever produced, breaking convention by placing scientific botanical subjects within romantic, dramatic natural landscapes
Notable Features
Features elaborate decorative presentation including a wide red damask-patterned fabric mat and a gilded inner fillet, accompanied by a handwritten vintage store tag denoting the title 'Roses' and price
Condition Issues
None readily apparent from the visual inspection beyond standard framing wear and contemporary retail labeling on the mat
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the hand-colored pigments on paper; maintain stable indoor humidity levels and archival backing if reframed