Greek valerian or Jacobs ladder, Polemonium caeruleum
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Greek valerian or Jacobs ladder, Polemonium caeruleum
Greek valerian or Jacobs ladder, Polemonium caeruleum.. Handcolored botanical copperplate engraving from Joshua Hamiltons Culpepers English Family Physician; or Medical Herbal Enlarged, with Several Hundred Additional Plants, Principally from Sir John Hill, London, W. Locke, 1792
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Media ID 14204637
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning handcolored botanical copperplate engraving depicts the Greek valerian, also known as Jacob's ladder or Polemonium caeruleum. The image is taken from Joshua Hamilton's Culpeper's English Family Physician; or Medical Herbal, published in London in 1792. The work was enlarged from Sir John Hill's original herbal and featured several hundred additional plants. The Greek valerian is a beautiful perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, distinguished by its climbing stems adorned with blue or purple flowers that resemble rungs on a ladder, hence the common name Jacob's ladder. The plant was highly valued in traditional medicine for its calming and sedative properties. It was believed to alleviate various ailments, including nervous disorders, insomnia, and digestive issues. Botanical illustrations like this one played a crucial role in the development of modern medicine, as they provided accurate records of plants and their uses. The intricate details captured in this engraving demonstrate the meticulous attention to detail that was essential for identifying and documenting medicinal plants during this period. The historical significance of this image extends beyond its medicinal value. Botanical illustrations were also prized for their aesthetic appeal, and collecting such prints was a popular pastime among the affluent classes during the 18th and 19th centuries. The artistry and craftsmanship displayed in this engraving are a testament to the skill and dedication of the artists and engravers who produced them. Today, the Greek valerian remains a popular ornamental plant, and its calming properties continue to be explored in modern medicine. This beautiful and intriguing image offers a glimpse into the rich history of botany, herbal medicine, and the art of botanical illustration.
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