Phalaenopsis sanderiana 1885 - 1906

Jean Jules Linden produced this botanical illustration of Phalaenopsis sanderiana. This image offers insights into nineteenth-century European colonialism and its impact on the natural world. Botanical illustrations like this one were made during a time of increased exploration and exploitation of foreign lands. The orchid itself, native to the Philippines, was brought to Europe through colonial expeditions. The very act of naming it "sanderiana" after a European plant collector reflects the power dynamics of the time, where European expertise and interests took precedence. These illustrations also served a scientific purpose. They were commissioned and used in botanical gardens, and academic publications to document and classify newly discovered species. However, their production was closely linked to the economic interests of colonial powers, who sought to exploit the resources of colonized territories. To truly understand this illustration, we need to delve into the history of botany, colonialism, and economic exploitation. By examining the archives of botanical institutions and colonial records, we can uncover the complex social and political forces that shaped its creation and dissemination.