Water Betony or Figwort (Scrophularia aquatica) – Original Hand-Colored Engraving by Elisabeth Blackwell

This striking botanical engraving depicts Water Betony, also known as Figwort (Scrophularia aquatica), presented with both scientific clarity and an unusually vivid natural presence. The plate shows the plant in full growth, with flowering stems and characteristic foliage carefully articulated alongside analytical details.

A tall vertical structure carries small clustered blossoms rendered in deep red tones, while the foliage is modelled with confident shading and crisp contour. A large leaf is shown with natural perforations and a small larval form resting upon it—an observational touch that reinforces the print’s documentary character and the lived reality of the plant in its habitat.

Produced in the early eighteenth century, this engraving belongs to A Curious Herbal (1737–1739), a foundational botanical and medical publication distinguished by the rare unity of authorship, in which drawing, copper engraving, and hand-colouring were executed by Elisabeth Blackwell herself.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The composition is anchored by a strong central stem that rises with architectural clarity, while branching flower sprays introduce measured asymmetry and a sense of upward motion. The chromatic contrast between the cool greens and the saturated reds creates a restrained but memorable visual rhythm.

The enlarged leaf element functions as both a botanical close-up and a compositional counterweight, adding dramatic scale variation. The natural leaf wear and the small larval presence introduce a subtle narrative note—an aesthetic of observation that feels remarkably modern while remaining faithful to the engraving’s analytical purpose.

About the Subject

Figworts (Scrophularia) were repeatedly recorded in early modern herbals for their place in household and apothecary practice, particularly in traditions concerned with external applications and “cooling” remedies. The common name “figwort” reflects historic associations with treatments for swellings and skin conditions, and clear identification mattered because related plants could share similar foliage and habit. Blackwell’s plate emphasizes reliable markers: the upright branching stems, the clustered tubular flowers, and the overall growth form typical of waterside environments. Within A Curious Herbal, this subject captures the book’s practical ambition: to provide readable, trustworthy botanical references at a time when medicine relied heavily on visual knowledge.

Condition Report

The engraving is preserved in like brand new antique condition, printed on original handmade laid paper typical of early eighteenth-century botanical publications. A period watermark is visible on the sheet, consistent with contemporary papermaking practices. The surface remains clean and stable, with a crisp impression and fresh original hand-colouring throughout. No notable defects are present. The engraved credit “Eliz. Blackwell delin. sculp. et pinx.” is fully legible, confirming that the drawing, engraving, and hand-colouring were executed by Elisabeth Blackwell herself.

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 singular unity of authorship behind A Curious Herbal, see our editorial feature:

Elisabeth Blackwell – A Curious Herbal