History of Succulents

the work

History of Succulents

"Histoire des Plantes Grasses" (History of Succulents) is a collection of illustrations of cacti and succulents by Pierre-Joseph Redouté , one of the most distinguished and celebrated botanical artists of all time . This 1799 work continues to fascinate plant lovers and researchers with its unparalleled beauty and botanical accuracy .

Pierre-Joseph Redouté Biography

• Born on July 10, 1759 in Saint-Hubert, Belgium.
• He worked as a painter and botanist.
• He served as botanical painter to the French royal family , including Marie Antoinette and Empress Josephine .
• He died in Paris on June 19, 1840 (aged 80).

Representative works

• The Roses (1817–1824)
• The Lilies (1802–1816)
• Choix des plus belles fleurs (1827-1833)
• History of Succulents (1799)

Redouté's style and achievements

Redouté's work is characterized by his botanical illustrations, which accurately and precisely depict the plant's form and color. In order to contribute to botanical research, he observed the plant in detail and faithfully reproduced it. At the same time, his botanical illustrations are also highly accomplished works of art, expressing the beauty of the plant to the fullest.

"The History of Succulents" was produced using Redouté's specialty, multicolor copperplate engraving, and beautifully reproduces the unique shapes and textures of cacti and succulents. These illustrations are highly regarded not only for their botanical value, but also for their artistic merit .

Redouté was such an outstanding figure in the field of botanical illustration that he was called the "Raphael of Flowers." His works contributed greatly to the popularization and development of botany, and even today they continue to fascinate many people with their beauty and precision.