6.4 The rise of the florilegium and its significance

Florilegia, collections of flower illustrations, gained popularity in the 17th century. These botanical anthologies showcased exotic plants as status symbols for the wealthy and catered to a growing interest in gardening and nature appreciation among amateur naturalists.

Unlike medicinal herbals, florilegia emphasized aesthetic appeal and plant diversity. They documented a wide variety of species, contributing to botanical knowledge and inspiring greater appreciation for the natural world through detailed, accurate illustrations.

The Florilegium in Botanical Illustration

Definition and origins of florilegium

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• Florilegium refers to a collection or anthology of flower illustrations gathered together in a book or portfolio
• The term originates from the Latin meaning "a gathering of flowers"
• Florilegia emerged as a distinct genre of botanical illustration in the late 16th and early 17th centuries
• Focused on showcasing the aesthetic appeal and variety of flowers rather than emphasizing their medicinal properties (herbals)

Popularity factors of 17th century florilegia

• Increased interest in gardening and horticulture among the wealthy led to exotic plants and flowers becoming status symbols (tulips, orchids)
• Florilegia served as visual catalogs of prized plant collections owned by aristocrats and wealthy merchants
• Advancements in printmaking techniques, particularly copperplate engraving, allowed for finer detail and greater accuracy in illustrations
• Improved printmaking also increased production and distribution of florilegia to a wider audience
• The rise of the amateur naturalist fueled a growing interest in the study and appreciation of nature
• Florilegia catered to this audience by emphasizing the beauty and diversity of plants from around the world

Role in plant diversity documentation

• Florilegia showcased a wide variety of plant species from both native and exotic locations (Americas, Asia, Africa)
• Highlighted the unique characteristics and beauty of each species through detailed illustrations
• Contributed to the development of botanical knowledge by providing accurate depictions of plant morphology and color
• Aided in plant identification and classification by documenting key distinguishing features
• Inspired a greater appreciation for the natural world and encouraged the cultivation and study of plants
• Promoted the aesthetic value of botanical illustration as an art form in its own right

Florilegia vs scientific herbals

• Florilegia emphasized the decorative and aesthetic qualities of plants, while herbals focused on medicinal properties and uses
• Florilegia targeted wealthy collectors, gardening enthusiasts, and amateur naturalists; herbals were intended for physicians, apothecaries, and medical students
• Florilegia served as catalogs of prized plant collections and showcased exotic specimens; herbals organized plants according to therapeutic applications
• Herbals included detailed descriptions of plant morphology and habitat for identification purposes, while florilegia prioritized visual appeal