Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

In the Maximus Gallery

Orchidaceae

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June 14, 2002 through September 8, 2002
John and Peggy Maximus Gallery

Orchidaceae: Three Centuries of the Orchid in Prints and Books

Orchids have captured the imaginations of plants lovers for centuries. Wild or cultivated, orchids are among the most intriguing plants on earth, offering an amazing array of forms and colors. This exhibit features original works of art devoted to exotic orchids. The fascinating history of the orchid family is depicted in magnificent hand-colored engravings and lithographs. Learn about the daring adventures of 19th century orchid hunters and the early attempts to cultivate and hybridize tropical orchids in Northern European climates. A display of colorful live blooming orchids accompanies the exhibit.

Orchids represent one of the largest families of flowering plants. Estimates put the number of living orchid species at more than 25,000. First studied in ancient China, orchids have an exotic beauty and diversity that sets them apart from other plants.

The native European orchid is modest when compared to its more flamboyant tropical cousins, and as 19th century explorers brought back botanical wonders, the demand for exotic plants swelled to a frenzy. Wealthy English gentlemen searching for rare specimens financed expeditions to remote parts of the world, including South Africa, India, the Philippines, and Australia. The passion and pursuit that characterized the era came to be known as "orchidmania."

With orchids collected indiscriminately and in huge numbers, the trade became a scandal. Millions of plants died because little was known about how to cultivate them. Entire orchid-rich areas of Central and South America were decimated as a result.

The continuous import of new orchids provided European artists with a seemingly unending task of illustrating them. Sumptuous hand-colored prints, magnificent books, and horticultural journals dispensing practical advice fed a growing market. Included in this exhibit are selections from the Museum's collection as well as beautiful specimens loaned by local orchid growers.

Orchids