Antique Sweet Violet Botanical Print | Viola odorata | F. Edward Hulme

This antique botanical print depicts Sweet Violet (Viola odorata), a fragrant wildflower of the violet family, and is taken from Familiar Wild Flowers, the celebrated natural history publication by Reverend F. Edward Hulme. Dating to the late Victorian or early Edwardian period, this period print is approximately 120–135 years old and represents a fine example of Victorian botanical illustration and colour printing.

Sweet Violet is known for its delicate purple flowers and distinctive fragrance. Native to much of Europe, including Britain, it is commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, shaded meadows and other lightly wooded habitats. The flower has a long association with European folklore, poetry, perfumery and traditional herbal practices, contributing to its enduring cultural appeal.

The detailed botanical rendering reflects the Victorian fascination with documenting and studying the natural world. Publications such as Familiar Wild Flowers combined botanical observation with carefully produced colour plates, making the study of native flora accessible to a wider audience while creating illustrations that remain collectible today.

The print is unframed but professionally mounted, making it ready for display or suitable for framing according to individual preference. Its age, botanical subject and connection to an important Victorian natural history publication make it a distinctive addition to collections of antique botanical prints, natural history works and vintage botanical art.

Details

• Subject: Sweet Violet (Viola odorata)
• Illustrator / Author: Reverend F. Edward Hulme
• Publication: Familiar Wild Flowers
• Period: Late Victorian / Early Edwardian
• Age: Approx. 120–135 years
• Medium: Antique botanical print
• Origin: Sourced from Delhi
• Tradition: Victorian botanical illustration and natural history publishing
• Mount: Professionally mounted; unframed
• Dimensions including mount: H 10 × L 7 in
• Condition: Antique condition with age-related characteristics
• Authenticity: Comes with an authenticity certificate from The Blue Trunk.