Book excerpt: Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759–1840) ranks among the most highly regarded botanical illustrators in history. Known as the "Raphael of Flowers" for his meticulously accurate watercolors of roses, lilies, and other flowers, Redouté dominated botanical art from 1790 to 1830. The official court artist for Louis XVI and art tutor to Marie Antoinette, he survived the Terror and received the patronage of Napoleon's wife, Empress Josephine. Today the appreciation of Redouté's masterworks is no longer limited to aristocratic circles. Hailed by botanists for their scientific accuracy and by lovers of fine art for their peerless beauty, the artist's floral illustrations appear in reproductions in millions of homes around the world. This original compilation presents 80 exquisite renderings of his finest works, with each image accompanied by a brief caption. In addition to its value as a reference for artists, this lushly illustrated volume is a wonderful companion for nature lovers.