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Bute's "Botanical tables": dictated by nature
Maureen H Lazarus1, Heather S Pardoe
1National Museum Wales
Archives of Natural History
|December 18, 2009
Summary
John Stuart, third Earl of Bute, created the "Botanical Tables" (1785) to explain his view of Linnaean taxonomy. This paper examines the creation and dispersal of these unique botanical works.
Area of Science:
- Botany
- History of Science
Background:
- John Stuart, third Earl of Bute, pursued botany in his later years.
- The publication of Linnaeus's "Systema naturae" (1735) significantly impacted botanical classification.
- Bute's "Botanical Tables" (1785) offered a unique interpretation of Linnaean taxonomy.
Observation:
- The "Botanical Tables" were privately published in twelve volumes, intended for a female audience.
- Renowned botanical artist John Miller provided scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing illustrations.
- The publication was distributed among family, royalty, and European botanical colleagues.
Findings:
- This paper investigates the specific circumstances surrounding the creation of Bute's "Botanical Tables".
- It explores the methods by which original sets and associated materials have become dispersed over time.
Implications:
- Understanding the production of "Botanical Tables" offers insight into 18th-century botanical study and illustration.
- Tracing the dispersal of these volumes aids in reconstructing the history of botanical collections and scholarship.
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