“Flowers and Their Emblems” is a 19th-century botanical work by “A Lily of the Field,” published in 1872 by W. H. Luke. This concise volume, spanning 70 pages, delves into the symbolic meanings of various flowers, herbs, and trees, offering insights into their cultural and emotional significance. The book serves as a guide to understanding how different plants convey messages and sentiments, reflecting the Victorian era’s fascination with floriography—the language of flowers.

The text is organized alphabetically, providing readers with a dual-language dictionary format that lists flowers by name and their corresponding meanings. For instance, the carnation symbolizes fascination, while the geranium represents gentility. Such associations offer a glimpse into the societal values and emotional expressions of the time. The inclusion of short poems and illustrations further enriches the reader’s experience, blending botanical knowledge with poetic sentiment.

Beyond its botanical focus, “Flowers and Their Emblems” also reflects the era’s social customs. The book’s design includes a printed calendar assigning a plant to each day of the year, accompanied by an associated quality and a short poem. This feature not only aids in remembering birthdays but also serves as a sentimental tool, allowing individuals to express feelings through the gifting of flowers. The interleaved blank pages provide space for personal inscriptions, transforming the book into a cherished keepsake or autograph album.

“Flowers and Their Emblems” is more than just a botanical reference; it is a cultural artifact that offers a window into the emotional and social life of the 19th century. Its blend of botanical knowledge, poetic expression, and cultural insight makes it a valuable resource for those interested in the historical interplay between nature and human sentiment.