Dendrobium superbum var anosmum 1885 - 1906

Jean Jules Linden made this print of Dendrobium superbum var anosmum in the 19th century. It embodies a Victorian passion for natural history and the scientific classification of species. But it's not just about science. Botanical prints like this one also speak to the rise of colonialism. As European powers expanded their reach, they sought to catalogue and control the natural resources of the world. Orchids, in particular, became a symbol of exotic beauty and a coveted status symbol for wealthy collectors back home. Understanding the social and economic context in which art is made is crucial. We can consult botanical journals, colonial records, and even auction catalogues to better understand the cultural significance of this image. By doing so, we can appreciate how art both reflects and shapes the world around us.