Publisher's Synopsis
For Alexander Marshal (c.1620-82), the cultivation of rare plants was essential to the study of the natural world. His interest was stimulated by specimens imported to England from the Near East and the New World in the 17th century. The 44 illustrations in this new coloring book are taken from the 'florilegium' (flower book) compiled by Marshal. Many are exotic newcomers; others native plants. Marshal was not a professional artist, but his florilegium - the only English flower book to survive from the period - contains some of the most beautiful plant studies in botanical art. The artworks were drawn to be studied and enjoyed by his friends and fellow horticulturalists.
