Antique French Herbarium Specimen No. 258 | Rosa micrantha Sm. var. | 1897

Antique French Herbarium Specimen No. 258 | Rosa micrantha Sm. var. | 1897

The French Herbarium Collection

A beautifully preserved original French herbarium specimen documenting Rosa micrantha, carefully collected and mounted in 1897 as part of Herbarium Rosarum, the celebrated botanical study compiled by Dr. Pons & Abbé Coste.

Collected in the Viaur Valley near Pont-de-Salars in Aveyron, France, this specimen captures the delicate beauty of a wild rose growing at an elevation of 690 meters. Pressed by hand and accompanied by its original printed identification label, it offers a rare glimpse into nineteenth-century botanical exploration and scientific preservation.

Today, these historic herbarium sheets are admired not only for their scientific significance but also for their quiet elegance as works of natural art. More than 125 years later, this specimen remains a timeless addition to a thoughtfully collected home.

Details

Antique French Herbarium Specimen No. 258 | Rosa micrantha Sm. var. | 1897

Collection: The French Herbarium Collection

Herbarium Number: 258

Species: Rosa micrantha Sm. var.

Collection: Herbarium Rosarum

Compiled by: Dr. Pons & Abbé Coste

Collected by: Simon

Collection Date: 21 August 1897

Origin: Vallée du Viaur, La Viguière, near Pont-de-Salars, Aveyron, France

Elevation: 690 m

Medium: Original pressed botanical specimen mounted on archival paper with original printed identification label

Dimensions: 11in x 18in x 1/4" 

*Note: This is an unframed art piece, which has been placed inside of an archival sleeve to keep it protected. Please inquire for pricing on framing options. 

Condition

Beautiful antique condition with age-related toning, foxing, and minor imperfections consistent with more than 125 years of age. The original pressed botanical specimen and printed identification label remain intact, preserving both its historical provenance and decorative appeal

Styling Notes

Whether displayed in a study, library, garden room, or hallway, this original herbarium sheet brings a quiet sense of history and natural beauty to the home. We especially love it framed in natural oak, rich walnut, or an antiqued gilt frame, where its soft patina and delicate botanical form become a timeless focal point. Display individually or pair with other specimens from The French Herbarium Collection to create an elegant gallery wall inspired by historic European botanical archives.