Flora Boreali-Americana Value Guide

This original engraving plate originates from Sir William Jackson Hooker's landmark publication, Flora Boreali-Americana, which documented botanical discoveries from British expeditions to North America. Featuring the Stropholirion Californicum, this piece represents a pivotal moment in the scientific classification of Western American flora during the early 19th century.

What affects the value of Flora Boreali-Americana?

• The historical significance of the plate as part of the first comprehensive study of North American plants.
• The physical condition of the paper, including the presence of foxing, water stains, or original margins.
• The rarity of the specific botanical subject, with Western American species often commanding higher interest from collectors.
• The provenance linking the illustration to the esteemed artists Walter Hood Fitch or Joseph Dalton Hooker.

How to Identify Flora Boreali-Americana?

• Verify the publication date range between 1829 and 1840, corresponding to the various British expeditions led by Sir John Franklin.
• Look for the distinct artistic styles of renowned botanical illustrators Joseph Dalton Hooker or Walter Hood Fitch.
• Confirm the specific scientific nomenclature 'Stropholirion Californicum' printed on the plate, identifying it as a species of wild onion.
• Check for the characteristic texture and aging of 19th-century UK-manufactured paper and ink quality.

History of Flora Boreali-Americana

Published between 1829 and 1840, this work documented the plants collected during the various British expeditions to North America, notably those led by Sir John Franklin. The illustrations were prepared by esteemed botanical artists like Joseph Dalton Hooker and Walter Hood Fitch. This specific plate identifies 'Stropholirion Californicum', a species of wild onion, and was crucial for the early scientific classification of Western American flora.