* From bestselling author Abbie Zabar * Glorious floral illustrations * Foreword by Chris Giftos, former Floral Master at the Met Museum * Beautifully packaged gift book For ten years, designer, gardener, illustrator, and bestselling author of The Potted Herb, Abbie Zabar had unique early-morning access to the Great Hall at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Each week, from 1994 to 2004, she drew the magisterial bouquets that adorn the soaring neoclassical entrance to one of the world's most visited art institutions. Published for the first time, Abbie's exquisite color pencil drawings of these floral masterpieces are presented in a beautifully fashioned gift book. Each drawing showcases her signature flair, her understanding of botanical elements, and her subtle use of color. Whether a holiday arrangement with magnolia leaves, red berries and flyaway branches, or a fiesta of palm leaves, red hot pokers, and birds of paradise, in the hands of their secret chronicler, these floral arrangements are alive with all the beauty and joy of nature. A timeless treasure for patrons of the museum; anyone drawn to florals and botanical art; gardeners; long-time fans of Abbie's work; and anyone looking for the perfect gift for any occasion.