Linden, Jean-Jules

Pescatorea.  Iconographie des orchidées. Premier volume [all published].  Brussels: M Hayez, [1854–] 1860

Folio (17 1/2 x 12 5/8 in.; 444 x 320 mm).  48 hand-colored lithographed plates by F. de Tollenaere after drawings by Tollenaere and Maubert, image in first plate outlined in ivory wash, half-title, list of plates; plates numbered in pencil in upper left corners, some light browning and occasional spotting.  Contemporary calf, spine gilt and with two lettering-pieces, covers with blind-stamped floral ornaments, marbled endpapers; spine ends worn, some wear to extremities.

Great Flower Books p. 65; Nissen BBI 1196; Stafleu TL2 4622

Condition as described in catalogue entry
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition.  The title refers to Jean-Paul Pescatore (1793–1855) of St. Cloud, a wealthy Luxembourg-born orchid grower and horticulturist, who was one of the first Europeans outside England to grow orchids as a leisure activity.  After Pescatore's death, the publication was discontinued, so that only one volume was issued.  Linden (1817–1898) was a native of Luxembourg who moved to Belgium as a youth.  He imported more than 1100 different orchid species to his adopted country.

Linden's co-editors were G. Lüddemann, J. E. Planchon, and H. G. Reichenbach.