Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) – Original Hand-Colored Engraving by Elisabeth Blackwell

This refined botanical engraving depicts Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), presenting a branching specimen with lobed leaves, clustered fruit, and flowering details arranged for clear botanical identification.

The plant is rendered with a natural, slightly irregular structure, its thorny branches supporting dense clusters of bright red fruit. Elisabeth Blackwell’s careful observation emphasizes both leaf form and berry structure, allowing the species to be recognized at a glance while maintaining compositional balance.

Created in the early eighteenth century, this plate belongs to A Curious Herbal, a foundational medical and botanical work distinguished by the unity of its production, in which drawing, copper engraving, and hand-colouring were executed by the same hand.

— • —

Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The composition develops through an upright central branch, from which secondary stems extend with gentle asymmetry. Rounded clusters of fruit act as visual anchors, contrasting with the angular rhythm of the lobed leaves and the linear tension introduced by the thorns.

A restrained palette of greens and reds introduces clarity without excess ornament. Subtle tonal variation models the leaves and berries with depth, reinforcing the engraving’s balance between scientific description and quiet decorative restraint.

About the Subject

Hawthorn—often referred to in early herbals as Spina alba—was a familiar native plant across much of Europe, commonly forming hedgerows and boundary markers. In medical tradition it was valued for the flowers and fruit, which were associated with strengthening and regulating properties, particularly in relation to the heart and circulation. Because hawthorn’s therapeutic use depended on the correct stage of harvest, accurate visual recognition of leaves, blossoms, and berries was essential. Its inclusion in A Curious Herbal reflects the importance of documenting everyday medicinal plants whose value lay not in rarity, but in reliable seasonal identification and practical domestic use.

Condition Report

The engraving is in exceptionally fine antique condition, printed on original handmade laid paper typical of early 18th-century botanical publications. A period watermark is visible on the sheet, consistent with contemporary papermaking practices. The surface remains fresh and stable, with light, even age-related toning consistent with period paper. The impression is crisp and legible throughout, with well-preserved margins. The engraved credit “Eliz. Blackwell delin. sculp. et pinx.” is present and fully legible, confirming the unified authorship of the plate.

Details

• Artist: Elisabeth Blackwell
• Work / Publication: A Curious Herbal
• Period: 1737–1739
• Technique: Original copper engraving, drawn, engraved, and hand-colored by Elisabeth Blackwell
• Paper: Original handmade laid paper
• Watermark: Period watermark visible
• Sheet size: approx. 37 × 22 cm

For further context on Elisabeth Blackwell and the unified authorship behind A Curious Herbal, see our editorial feature:

Elisabeth Blackwell – A Curious Herbal