BOOK: The creators of Flora Danica
THE CREATORS of Flora Danica
Flora Danica is one of the most impressive botanical works in world history – a masterpiece that took a full 123 years to complete. It became not only an exceptional collection of plant illustrations but also the inspiration for the world-famous porcelain service.
When the story of the 54 volumes is told, the kings and the chief botanical editors who oversaw the project are often mentioned. But what about those who put pen to paper, engraved the copper plates and carefully printed every single illustration? The artists and craftsmen who turned science into visual beauty have far too often been forgotten.
Biologist and illustrator Jens Christian Schou now brings their stories to light. For the first time, the well-trained Danish female copperplate engravers are also revealed—women who from around 1840, despite a male-dominated world, helped give the work its final, decisive touch before it was completed in 1883.
The book takes you on a journey through the creation of Flora Danica, illustrated with the most beautiful plates and tales of the unique collaboration between artists, scientists and royalty. A testament to passion, precision and the ultimate meeting of art and science.
