Curtis’s Botanical Magazine, established in 1787 by William Curtis, is the world’s longest-running periodical featuring original color illustrations of plants. Volume 113, published in 1887 under the editorship of Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker, continues this tradition by presenting detailed botanical illustrations and descriptions of various plant species.

This volume showcases the magazine’s commitment to combining scientific accuracy with artistic excellence. Each entry provides meticulous illustrations accompanied by comprehensive descriptions, including the plant’s taxonomy, native habitat, and cultivation information. This approach caters to both botanists and horticulturists, offering valuable insights into plant morphology and growth requirements.

The illustrations in Volume 113 were produced using lithography, a technique that replaced copper engraving in 1845 to streamline production. Despite this shift, the magazine maintained its tradition of hand-coloring each plate, ensuring the vibrancy and accuracy of the illustrations. This labor-intensive process reflects the dedication to quality that has characterized the magazine since its inception.

Under Hooker’s editorship, the magazine continued to document plant species from around the world, reflecting the global botanical explorations of the time. Volume 113 serves as a valuable historical record, capturing the botanical knowledge and artistic practices of the late 19th century. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Curtis’s Botanical Magazine in the field of botanical illustration and literature.