An original 1868 watercolour painting, E.R.P., Mushroom Milkcap (Lactarius).A delightful 19th-century mushroom study drawn in 1868.One of a collection by the same hand that we have for sale, this study dates from a time when the science of mycology was very much in its infancy. It was only in the second half of the century that mycology began to organise itself as a distinct discipline in Britain, and even then it was a science on the margins, with a strong amateur tradition.The artist is unknown but this is clearly someone with a keen interest in mycology, not just copying illustrations but drawing and identifying specimens in the field. with locations in Malvern and Herefordshire, the artist was quite possibly a female member of what has been described as a 'vibrant sisterhood' of amateur mycologists in the Midlands that included Sarah Price (fl.1864) and M.F. Lewis (fl.1860–1902).In watercolour with graphite underdrawing and white bodycolour highlights. On watermarked J Whatman Turkey Mill 1850 paper.All artworks come with a Certificate of Authenticity and—if it is a collection artwork—its accompanying collection text or artist biography. Signed: Initialled lower right. Inscribed: No. Dated: Dated lower right. Height: 21.6cm (8.5″) Width: 31.8cm (12.5″) Condition: Some age toning as shown. The lower corners of the paper are fragile, with a repair to the lower right corner. Please see photos for detail. Presented: Unframed.