“California Wild Flowers: 12 Reproductions in Natural Colors from Water-Color Drawings” is a botanical art portfolio created by Elisabeth Hallowell Saunders in 1905. This work features twelve meticulously rendered watercolor illustrations of native California wildflowers, each reproduced using a three-color printing process on high-quality white cardboard. The collection is housed in a brown paper three-flap portfolio, with the title printed in black and red within a decorative medallion. Each illustration is signed with the copyright notice “E.M.H.S., 1905,” indicating Saunders’ authorship and artistic contribution.

The twelve wildflowers depicted in this portfolio include the California poppy, prickly phlox, brodiaea, cream cups, monkey flower, owl’s clover, Indian paint-brush, wild pansy, mariposa tulip, wild heliotrope, shooting star, and scarlet bugler. These species were chosen for their distinctive beauty and representation of California’s diverse flora. The illustrations are celebrated for their botanical accuracy and artistic quality, capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors of each plant.

Elisabeth Hallowell Saunders was a dedicated botanical artist whose work contributed to the documentation and appreciation of California’s native plants. Her illustrations serve not only as artistic expressions but also as valuable scientific records, aiding in the identification and study of these species. The portfolio reflects the early 20th-century interest in natural history and the growing appreciation for native plants in California.

This collection is significant for its historical and artistic value, offering a glimpse into the flora of California as it appeared over a century ago. The high-quality reproductions and the careful attention to detail in each illustration make this portfolio a cherished resource for botanists, artists, and nature enthusiasts alike. It stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and diversity of California’s wildflowers and the artists who have dedicated their talents to capturing them.