How 130 years ago in the USA, the recently discovered berries and fruits were documented in watercolor

In 1886, the U.S. Department of Agriculture implemented a particularly ambitious project. With the help of several watercolor artists, the organization, which was just 24 years old, wanted to document thousands of recently discovered fruits, nuts, and other fruits. The result of the effort was a unique botanical resource.

This is a collection of real works of art called "Pomological Watercolor", which includes varieties of fruits and nuts from 29 countries and 51 US states. Each sample is depicted with amazing detail. For 56 years, more than twenty artists have performed bizarre watercolors, creating 7,497 illustrations. Their work has helped perpetuate a thriving industry.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently decided to digitize these drawings to present their amazing achievements to the world. It’s impossible not to fall in love with images - they are made with such amazing talent and accuracy!