Hand-coloured lithograph  1830

185 x 148 mm [267 x 213 mm]

This humorous lithograph with bright, vivid hand-colouring was published in the series, Purcell's Lithographic Drawing Book depicting the personification of trade costumes, characters composed of the objects of their profession. It was drawn by George Spratt, printed by George E Madeley, Wellington Street, Strand and published by Charles Tilt, Fleet Street, London, in 1830. Original prints from this series are extremely rare and sought after. George Spratt, the artist, was also a male midwife and a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. In 1833, he illustrated and published Obstetric Tables, an anatomical 'pop-up' book describing the various stages of pregnancy.

A satirical rendering of a female botanist comprising various plants and flowers including a thistle, a rose, lilies of the valley, morning glory, pea pods, sweet Williams, primrose and campanula.