Butterfly Lily

By Pierre-Joseph Redouté

A truly superb example of authentic stipple engraving with original hand coloring done by the famous "Raphael of Flowers," Pierre-Joseph Redouté. Plate No. 29 from this famed artist's masterpiece, Les Liliacées, (published 1802-1816), an impressive set of plates published during the heyday of French botanical printing, sponsored by Empress Joséphine Bonaparte herself.

This particular stipple engraving offers a realistic portrayal of the graceful Hedychium Coronarium (the Butterfly Lily or White Ginger Lily). The stippling technique used by Redouté lends a beautiful play of light and shade to this exquisite work, highlighting the sculptural nature of the delicate white petals in stunning contrast against the rich green, flowing leaves.