Botanical Illustration of Purple Flowers (Trachelium caeruleum)
Work on paper; likely a watercolor painting or high-quality botanical print with hand-finishing • Richard A. Henson (signed lower left)
Style & Movement
Naturalism / Botanical Realism
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and ink on paper, utilizing fine stippling and layered washes to define botanical texture
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (approx. 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8 x 10 inches (sight size); Portrait format
Subject Description
A detailed botanical study of a flowering plant featuring a dense round terminal cluster of small purple florets atop a central green stem with serrated leaves. The composition is vertical and scientific in nature, focusing on accurate representation of the speciman against a neutral off-white background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible foxing and moisture staining throughout the paper support
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; artist signature indicates a mid-to-late 20th-century decorative or illustrative origin
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 20th-century revival of traditional botanical illustration, which blends scientific accuracy with decorative aesthetic appeal. Henson's work follows the lineage of illustrators like Redouté but within a modern commercial or decorative context.
Notable Features
Clearly legible artist signature 'Richard A. Henson' in the lower left corner; fine detail in the stamen and leaf serration.
Condition Issues
Notable foxing (brown spots) likely due to humidity; acidic mount burn around the edges; moisture staining in the lower background areas.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional deacidification and cleaning by a paper conservator; remounting with acid-free (archival) matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further discoloration.