Home > Historic > Ancient civilizations > Ancient Greece > Greek history
Greek orchids
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Greek orchids
Greek orchids: bumblebee orchid, Ophrys bombyliflora (Ophrys tabanifera) and horseshoe bee-orchid, Ophrys ferrum-equinum. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by George Barclay after an illustration by Miss Sarah Drake from Edwards Botanical Register, edited by John Lindley, London, Ridgeway, 1847
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23163934
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Barclay Bumblebee Drake Edwards Horseshoe Lindley Ophrys Orchid Register Sarah Sydenham Bee Orchid Miss
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> Greece
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek history
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving, created by George Barclay after an illustration by Miss Sarah Drake for the Edwards Botanical Register in 1847, showcases two stunning orchid species native to Greece: the Bumblebee Orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora, previously known as Ophrys tabanifera) and the Horseshoe Bee-Orchid (Ophrys ferrum-equinum). The Bumblebee Orchid, with its intricate, labyrinthine pattern of red, yellow, and brown hues, is a masterpiece of nature's design. Its appearance closely resembles a female bumblebee, complete with a false pollen mass, which attracts the insects for pollination. The orchid's name, Ophrys, comes from the Greek word for 'woman's face,' reflecting its uncanny resemblance to the female bee. The Horseshoe Bee-Orchid, on the other hand, boasts a unique horseshoe-shaped labellum, which mimics the appearance of a female wasp. This adaptation helps attract male wasps for pollination. The orchid's scientific name, Ophrys ferrum-equinum, translates to 'iron-shod horse,' likely due to the horseshoe shape of its labellum. These beautiful orchids were meticulously captured in this engraving, which showcases their intricate details and vibrant colors. The artistry of Miss Sarah Drake's original illustration and George Barclay's engraving techniques bring the Greek orchids to life, offering a glimpse into the rich botanical heritage of the region. This image is a testament to the beauty and intrigue of the natural world and the importance of documenting it for future generations.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
