Flowers. Masterpieces of Botanical Illustration by Pierre-Joseph Redoute

Luxurious roses, splendid lilies, and irises — the queens of any garden! Botanical illustrations by the famous French artist Pierre-Joseph Redoute are true masterpieces in the world of art.

«Raphael of flowers» — this is how contemporaries referred to the favorite of the French court in the 18th century. As the court illustrator for the botanical catalogs of Queen Marie Antoinette, the artist dedicated himself exclusively to depicting blooming plants in watercolor, painting picturesque floral still lifes for wealthy Parisian patrons, to whom he served. 

Redoute's main specialization was roses and lilies. The luxurious edition of the book «Lilies» from 1802 remains one of the most expensive books in history.

The artist attracted the attention of the French elite of the 18th—19th centuries while traveling with botanical expeditions and creating stunning illustrations for catalogs of the flora and fauna of the Natural History Museum. As the court painter to Marie Antoinette, the «Raphael of flowers» survived political storms and, thanks to his talent, received the patronage of Napoleon's wife — Josephine. 

This book contains selected works of the artist, allowing one to feel the botanical splendor of beautiful Paris in the past, accessible only to the bygone elite of French society. Immerse yourself in the world of beauty and elegance created by Pierre-Joseph Redoute and enjoy exploring his creations. The floral illustrations adorning each page of this book will allow you to relish the unique charm of nature captured on canvas and preserved in history.