Artwork Page for The Blue Passion-flower

Details / Information for The Blue Passion-flower

The Blue Passion-flower

1799–1807

Robert John Thornton

(British, 1768–1837)
Culture
England, late 18th-early 19th Century
Medium
aquatint, stipple, line engraving, etching and roulette
Credit Line
Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland, for the Donald Gray Memorial Collection 1939.293
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

In the 18th century, new engraving and etching techniques offered a variety of tonal effects that enhanced botanical prints. While mezzotint (in which the plate is roughened and then the engraver works from dark to light creating different values) and stipple (dots create values) make it possible to create the rich tonal scale and velvety texture of oil paint, aquatint imitates the delicacy and transparency of watercolor and ink wash.
A vertically oriented engraving depicts a flowering vine ascending a dark, fluted pillar. Three white blossoms unfold, showcasing concentric rings of blue filaments and yellow centers. Five-lobed green leaves and spiraling tendrils weave across the composition, while a lone orange fruit hangs suspended at the bottom right. Fine stippling provides tonal depth to the foliage. Cursive text at the base reads "The Blue Passion Flower."

The Blue Passion-flower

1799–1807

Robert John Thornton

(British, 1768–1837)
England, late 18th-early 19th Century

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