Californian Edible Mushroom

24.5 x 16 cm (9.75 x 6.25 inches).

Boletus edulis

This superb antique print was made in 1849 and is from the first edition of Dictionnaire D'Histoire Naturelle by Charles Orbigny. It was made by engraving and has beautiful hand colouring enriched with shellac finishing. The print is on heavy, high quality stiff paper with the print on one side, and the reverse is blank. It's in very good condition.
Many experts consider these the finest natural history prints (see * below). Bear in mind this means they are being compared to work by Audubon and Gould, and you will appreciate they are likely to increase in value once more collectors become aware of them. [*Reference Nissen ZBI, 4617; Wood 323 "the plates in this remarkable work render it the best illustrated encyclopedia of natural history"].