White Dittany (Dictamnus albus) – Original Hand-Colored Engraving by Elisabeth Blackwell

This refined botanical engraving depicts White Dittany (Dictamnus albus), a tall flowering plant distinguished by its upright habit and striking star-shaped blossoms arranged along a central stem.

The composition balances delicacy and structure: pale pink flowers with elongated stamens emerge rhythmically along the axis, while deep green, compound leaves anchor the plant visually. A separate rendering of the root emphasizes its medicinal significance, underscoring the plant’s practical importance beyond its ornamental appeal.

Executed in the early eighteenth century, this plate forms part of A Curious Herbal, Elisabeth Blackwell’s ambitious work combining direct observation with medical utility, at a time when botanical illustration served both scientific study and pharmacy.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The plant is organized along a strong vertical axis, punctuated by blossoms that radiate outward with measured symmetry. The elongated stamens introduce a sense of movement and lightness, contrasting with the solid, grounded presence of the stem and foliage.

Hand-colouring is applied with restraint, enhancing the natural contrast between flower, leaf, and stem without overwhelming the composition. The overall effect is poised and elegant, combining botanical clarity with visual harmony.

About the Subject

White dittany, also known historically as fraxinella (Dictamnus albus), was valued in early European medicine for its aromatic oils and its use in preparations associated with digestion, inflammation, and nervous conditions. The plant was widely noted for its strong scent and for the belief—based on observable phenomena—that it could emit flammable vapours in hot weather. Its presence in A Curious Herbal reflects the close relationship between botanical observation, medicinal application, and experiential knowledge in early modern Europe, where sensory qualities played an important role in therapeutic classification.

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. The hand-colouring is well preserved, and the engraved text and original inscriptions are clear and fully legible, including the artist’s credit “Eliz. Blackwell delin. sculp. et pinx.”

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 deeper context on Elisabeth Blackwell’s work and the medical-botanical framework of A Curious Herbal, see our editorial article:

Elisabeth Blackwell – A Curious Herbal