Botanical Art Forever Stamp 2016
Celebrating the Exquisite Botanical Artwork Found in American Nursery Catalogs (1891-1912)
Stamp Overview:
These stamps pay homage to a rich tradition of floral-themed U.S. postage, celebrating the exquisite botanical artwork featured in American nursery catalogs from 1891 to 1912.
Design Inspiration:
Crafted from an American nursery catalog housed in The New York Botanical Garden??s Nursery and Seed Catalog Collection, the stamp design features corn lilies, evoking the nostalgic charm of botanical illustrations from a bygone era.
First Day of Issue:
The First Day of Issue Ceremony took place at the American Philatelic Society??s AmeriStamp/Southeastern Stamp Expo at the Hilton Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia, marking the debut of this captivating botanical art series.
The Botanical Art Collection:
This set comprises 10 stamps, each showcasing unique artwork from vintage American nursery catalogs. Among the species depicted are corn lilies, tulips, dahlias, stocks, roses, Japanese irises, petunias, and jonquils.
A Tradition of Botanical Art:
Botanical art has long graced gardening catalogs and magazines, dating back over two centuries. In 1784, David Landreth pioneered the mail-order seed catalog, catering to esteemed customers like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Legacy of David Landreth:
Landreth's legacy included introducing the zinnia, the first white potato, and the tomato to the United States. By 1832, he launched the nation??s inaugural floral and horticultural magazine.
The Rise of Seed Catalogs in the 19th Century:
The 19th century witnessed an explosion of seed companies and catalogs, fueled by the wave of Westward Expansion. As Americans embraced leisure gardening during the Industrial Age, elaborate flower gardens became en vogue, with seed catalog covers serving as prime platforms for showcasing new varieties.
W. Atlee Burpee??s Impact:
The W. Atlee Burpee company was a trailblazer in promoting novel seed strains through captivating cover art, igniting consumer demand for these botanical marvels. Today, many seed companies eschew modern photography in favor of timeless cover art, preserving the allure of vintage botanical illustrations.
