Language of Flowers
Kate Greenaway (1846-1901) was the illustrious book illustrator and author of children’s books during the Victorian era. She was also interested in the 19th century tradition of the flower book, botany and floriography. In The Language of Flowers, she beautifully and delicately illustrated over 200 plants with their attributed meaning including selected verses by important poets.
This original edition of The Language of Flowers was a collaboration with Edmund Evans, an important English printer. He also printed books by other influential children’s authors including Beatrix Potter, Walter Crane, and Randolph Caldecott.
It was a popular tradition to present floral bouquets with symbolic meanings in England, France, and the United States during this time. Continuing that tradition, Special Collections presents this book of floral illustrations for your enjoyment.
Vanderbilt University Special Collections
Illustrated by Kate Greenaway
London: G. Routledge and Sons, 1884
Vanderbilt University Special Collections