Matted-Plums

George Brookshaw (1751-1823)

Plate 11; Plums

From: A Collection of Most Esteemed Fruits

London: 1817

Hand-colored aquatint engraving

Sheet Dimension: 13.25 x 11 in. 

Characterized by the highest standards of production and artistic quality, the superb illustrations that Brookshaw drew and engraved for the “Pomona” remain
perhaps the most sumptuous and distinctive of the early 19th century. Brookshaw’s fine illustrations make excellent use of the rich, modulated tones that the aquatint process creates. The elegantly arranged and richly colored fruits emerge from deep brown backgrounds or float on a softly mottled
light ground, creating a presence unlike that of any other botanical illustrations. The beauty and uniqueness of his illustrations guarantees the lasting value of this most exceptional work.