French flower painterPierre-Joseph Redout(17591840) devoted himself exclusively to capturing the diversity of flowering plants in watercolor paintings which were then published as copper engravings, with careful botanical descriptions. The darling of wealthy Parisian patrons including Napoleons wife Josephine, he was dubbed the Raphael of flowers, and is regarded to this day asa master of botanical illustration.

This elegant catalogue brings togetherall engravings from Redouts illustrations ofRosesandChoix des plus belles fleurs(Selection of the Most Beautiful Flowers)and the most astounding images fromThe Lilies. Offering a vibrant overview of Redouts admixture of accuracy and beauty, it is also a privileged glimpse into themagnificent gardens and greenhouses of a bygone Paris.