The Language of Flowers (1887), leather-bound in perfect condition.

In Victorian times, floriography was a means of cryptological communication through the arrangement of flowers. Different plants were understood to hold specific meanings, often derived from mythology or superstition, and their arrangement conveyed meaning as well. Beginning around the early 1800s, thoughtfully-crafted bouquets were used to pass messages among friends, lovers, and even enemies; while a forget-me-not wrapped ivy would symbolize on a declaration of true love, a sprig of basil conveyed a subtle “I hate you” to the recipient.

This stunning reprint of The Language of Flowers, originally published in London in 1887, contains the symbolism of dozens of flowers and plants, interwoven with floral-themed poetry from the time period. This copy is bound in embossed magenta leather with a textured outer cover, a marbled inner cover, and a ribbon bookmark. It is in pristine condition and was custom printed for the personal collection of the original owner, who now wishes to pass it along to a new home by way of TCK.

10” x 7.5”