May, from Twelve Months of Flowers n.d.

Henry Fletcher created this print titled "May, from Twelve Months of Flowers" using etching and engraving techniques. It is a vibrant depiction of various flowers arranged in a vase. This print belongs to a tradition of floral representation that was deeply connected to social status and scientific exploration. In the 18th century, botanical illustrations were not merely decorative; they were vital tools for understanding the natural world, which fueled economic interests such as trade. Prints like these were part of a larger cultural phenomenon where the elite displayed their knowledge and control over nature through elaborate gardens and collections of exotic plants. The detailed rendering of each flower speaks to a growing interest in scientific accuracy, but also reflects the economic power required to cultivate such a collection. Historians study prints like these alongside garden plans, trade records, and botanical texts, to gain a deeper understanding of the intertwined histories of art, science, and society.