The Age of Botanical Wonders
Illustrations from Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London, 1805–1829

The proceedings of the Horticultural Society of London (renamed the Royal Horticultural Society in 1861), were collected in publications entitled Transactions of the Horticultural Society of London appearing periodically from 1812 to1842. The Transactions were devoted to the subject of horticulture and the improvement of its practice. The Society's innovative leadership attracted the most eminent scholars, scientists, artists, and engravers of the day to contribute to the content and production of the Transactions. This exhibition features exquisite, hand-colored engraving on steel by botanical masters such as William Hooker, John Lindley, and William Say. The volumes in the Museum's Library Collection were acquired in the early 20^th century by the newly formed International Garden Club which modeled itself after the Royal Horticultural Society.