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Jacobs ladder or Greek valerian, Polemonium caeruleum
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Jacobs ladder or Greek valerian, Polemonium caeruleum
Jacobs ladder or Greek valerian, Polemonium caeruleum. Handcoloured copperplate engraving after an illustration by James Sowerby from James Smiths English Botany, London, 1791
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Media ID 23202582
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Herbal Jacobs Ladder Sowerby Valerian Polemonium Smith
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Jacob's Ladder, or Greek Valerian (Polemonium caeruleum), is a beautiful and intricately detailed flowering plant that has captured the attention of botanists and garden enthusiasts for centuries. This stunning hand-colored copperplate engraving, created by James Sowerby in 1791 for James Smith's English Botany, provides an exquisite and accurate representation of the plant's unique features. The Jacob's Ladder derives its common name from the appearance of its flowers, which resemble a ladder or staircase, with each petal forming a step. The plant's scientific name, Polemonium caeruleum, refers to the Greek mythological figure Polemon, who was said to have been cured of a fatal wound by the plant's healing properties. The engraving showcases the plant in all its glory, with each delicate petal and vein meticulously rendered in vibrant colors. The background features a lush, green foliage, adding to the overall sense of natural beauty and serenity. The intricate details of the engraving are a testament to the skill and artistry of the engraver, as well as the dedication of the botanist and illustrator to accurately documenting the natural world. Jacob's Ladder was not only admired for its aesthetic qualities, but also for its medicinal properties. The plant was used in traditional herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including nervous disorders, headaches, and even snake bites. Today, the plant continues to be a popular addition to gardens and natural areas, where it can be enjoyed for its beauty and historical significance. This engraving is a valuable historical document, providing a glimpse into the world of botanical discovery and illustration during the late 18th century. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and documenting the natural world, as well as the enduring beauty and fascination of the natural world itself.
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