George Engelmann to Mr. Picart 

 February 2 



(written in French) 



Sir, 



I have just received your letter and the proofs of 2 plates. I have nothing to say in regards the 

 stamen on plate 14, but it seems to me that the lower portion of the plate with the root is too 

 pronounced and perhaps too black as compared to the upper portion. The mamelae could be 

 more detached. I don't doubt that you will find them this way in the drawings; if I remember 

 correctly the roots are drawn very lightly, like with chaulk. I am sure you thought they were 

 wrinkles. You will understand what I am saying when you reexamine the drawing. I am not sure 

 if the inferior portion of the flower is covered with flakes, as you showed it. The stylus is too 

 black but the worse fault is that you traced the petals serrated; they are really lightly and 

 irregularly lacerated towards their tip; that without a doubt you will be able to see in the 

 drawings. The texture of the petals like in nearly ail those cacti is very délicate and the surface 

 seems soft and lucent, which always has to be considered. 



I ask you to please send me one proof as soon as the next plate is finished, because it 

 seems préférable to tell you my recommendations soon, so that you can use them in your future 

 work. 



(no signature) 



translation Manfred Thurmann 



