Rumphius was a very early botanist (1627-1702) - he produced a monumental manuscript on the plants of Ambon "The Ambonese Herbal" - This work is the translation of the orchid related portions from Dutch to English and put into one book. 15 orchids are described, each with a very detailed sketch. 16 other illustrations are also included throughout thr book. E. M. Beekman was both the translator and editor for this current work.