These watercolor are derived from a well-established tradition of Chinese artists, working in and around the coastal trading ports, producing work for Western patrons, particularly the members of the East India and Dutch East India Companies. While meeting Western demands for botanical accuracy, the present drawings embody a distinctly Chinese feeling and tradition for design and delicacy, which almost brings the plants to life. The insects (and particularly the butterflies) are used to heighten what are already pleasing compositions.