Orchids – Pierre Strooband, 1882

Orchids, drawing made with pencil and watercolour in 1882 by Pierre Strooband. Signed and dated “P. Strooband 16 Juni 82.” Size (paper): 30 x 41 cm.

Becausethe flowers have broad, ruffled petals and a strikingly deep purple lip with a yellow throat, they are most likely Cattleya warscewiczii.

In the 19th century, there was an enormous fascination with exotic orchids. In Victorian England, this even led to an “Orchidelirium” (great Scrabble word!), an orchid fever.

Wealthy collectors and botanists funded expeditions to discover and import new species. Cattleya species, including Cattleya warscewiczii, were particularly sought after due to their spectacular size and colors.

The species was named after the famous Polish plant collector Józef Warszewicz (1812–1866), who brought many tropical plants from South America to Europe. His discoveries contributed to the orchid’s recognition in scientific and horticultural circles.

In the 19th century, botanical illustrations and scientific publications became increasingly popular. Artists and botanists, such as Pierre Stroobant, meticulously documented these orchids, providing valuable references for growers and researchers.

Due to their large and fragrant flowers, Cattleya orchids were often cultivated in botanical gardens and greenhouses of aristocrats. In England, France, and Belgium, famous gardens housed these orchids as status symbols.

Price: Euro 650,-