About the artist
uring the Enlightenment era in Great Britain, James Sowerby (1757-1822), an exceptional natural historian and artist, arose from modest beginnings. Active during a period of increased fascination in the natural world, between Linnaeus's demise and Darwin's emergence, he became integral to the primary network of scholars and collectors. Known for his comprehensive knowledge of natural history and superb botanical artwork, comparable to Redouté and Ehret, Sowerby created stunning, taxonomically precise illustrations. His contributions spanned across flora, fauna, fossils, and minerals, and even included the description of new species and colour experiments. His efforts advanced understanding in these areas, supported learned societies, and established an educational museum. Unmatched in his accomplishments, Sowerby's legacy persists today, treasured by many as an invaluable asset in natural history.
