Framed Watercolour, 19th Century Fungi Study, Artist Unknown

Title: Fungi Study Sheet – Cantharellus, Hydnum, and Boletus
Artist: Unknown
Date: 19th century
Medium: Watercolour and ink on laid paper
Origin: Likely Central or Northern Europe
Dimensions: 30 cm x 25 cm 
 
This 19th-century botanical study showcases three species of fungi, carefully identified in period Latin as Agaricus cantharellus (now Cantharellus cibarius or chanterelle), Hydnum repandum (commonly known as the hedgehog mushroom), and Boletus bovinus (the Jersey cow bolete). Each specimen is sensitively rendered in warm ochres and earthy browns, typical of the naturalist palette of the era.
The artist has included sectional views for both the Boletus and Hydnum, capturing their internal structures — a common practice in 19th-century scientific illustration intended to aid with field identification. The script, likely of Central European origin, and the precise tonal work suggest the sheet may have belonged to a mycological reference folio or teaching collection.
As with many such studies from the period, the work strikes a balance between scientific inquiry and aesthetic observation, offering insight into both the taxonomy and quiet beauty of the forest floor.