Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers

Floriography is a breathtakingly gorgeous illustrated treatise on the Victorian "secret" meanings of flowers. Due out 15th Sept 2020 from Andrews McMeel, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. The author is a well known artist with a strong following on social media and this is a really beautiful showcase of her botanical work.

The first section of the book is an herbal primer with each of the entries containing the common and botanical (Latin) name, the floriographic meanings, suggestions for pairing and bouquets, as well as a sepia toned delicately colored full page illustration. The art is wonderful and evocative, delicate and detailed.

The second section includes bouquets (see cover art) along with some more detailed descriptions of uses and occasions (both happy and bitter - there are numerous suggestions from which to choose). The author/artist has also included an abbreviated index arranged by emotion/occasion with suggestions for appropriate floral regards. Many of the full page illustrations are rendered on darker colored background with tinted nostalgic looking artwork. It's a beautiful effect and marries perfectly with the subject matter.

Five stars. This would make a lovely gift for a gardening friend or historical re-enactor, botanical artist or just for lovers of beautiful books. Restrained and beautifully done.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.