RHS Rose Brooch (Small)

This Rose brooch is based on the Rosa centifolia- This rose is a complex hybrid developed

by Dutch breeders sometime before the 19th century. It is particularly used in the perfume

trade, as it especially valued for its singular fragrance which is sweet and clean, with high 

notes of honey. This rose pendant is inspired by artwork by Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759-

1840) owned by The Royal Horticultural Society - The floral works of Redouté have a great 

reputation for their beauty and accuracy. He began his career as a scene painter in Paris 

but his real love was flower painting. He was found painting in the Jardin du Roi by the 

wealthy botanist Charles Louis L’Hértier de Brutelle who became his patron. Redouté was 

introduced to the royal household and was appointed Draughtsman to the Cabinet of 

Marie-Antoinette. After the revolution Joséphine Bonaparte became his generous patron.

She spent untold sums on the publications recording her rare and exotic plants which 

contributed directly to Redouté’s most magnificent volumes Les Liliacées (1802-16) and 

Les Roses (1817-24).