Muscat of Alexandria (*Vitis vinifera*) var. Muscat, Alexandrie, Antique botanical print by Bessa (c.1801-1819)

French Cultivated Grapes (Muscat of Alexandria) — A Dense Cluster in Soft Olive and Gold

This original early 19th-century botanical engraving presents Vitis vinifera as a cultivated French variety identified as Muscat d’Alexandrie. The composition focuses on a single, elongated cluster of grapes suspended from a gently curving stem, isolated against ample white space that enhances its sculptural clarity.

Pancrace Bessa renders the fruit with particular sensitivity to volume and surface. Each grape is softly modelled, with discreet transitions between pale olive greens, warm yellow notes, and subtle amber touches that suggest ripening. The overall effect is calm and cohesive, emphasizing natural abundance without visual excess.

Issued as part of Arbres et Arbustes, this plate reflects the period’s sustained interest in cultivated orchard and vineyard varieties, where fruit was documented with both scientific precision and an eye for domestic elegance.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The cluster is composed as a continuous downward rhythm, tapering gently toward the base and creating a sense of natural weight and gravity. Rounded forms repeat in a measured cadence, avoiding rigidity through slight variations in size, colour, and spacing.

Fine stipple engraving combined with controlled hand-colouring produces a softly luminous surface. The restrained palette—dominated by greens warmed with golden undertones—gives the fruit a tactile presence while maintaining a refined, almost architectural simplicity.

About the Subject

The plate is identified in the original publication as a cultivated grapevine:

• Scientific name: Vitis vinifera
• Category: Vigne cultivée (cultivated vine)
• Variety (as printed): Muscat d’Alexandrie

Rather than depicting foliage or flowering stages, Bessa concentrates on the fruit itself, highlighting the density, maturity, and characteristic colouration of this well-known cultivated variety.

Condition Report

The engraving is in very good antique condition. A few very light, scattered toning spots may be observed, remaining discreet and not distracting from the image. The original hand-colouring is well preserved. No watermark has been observed. The engraved credits “P. Bessa pinx.” and “Amb.se Legrand sculp.” are present.

Details

• Artist: Pancrace Bessa
• Engraver: Amb.se Legrand
• Work / Publication: Arbres et Arbustes
• Period: early 19th century (c. 1801–1819)
• Technique: Original hand-colored engraving
• Paper: Original period paper
• Watermark: None observed
• Sheet size: approx. 40 × 25 cm

For insight into Bessa’s distinctive hand-colouring techniques, see our editorial feature on Pancrace Bessa:

Pancrace Bessa: the Naturalist Painter of Botanical Grace