Who painted Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod)?

Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod) was painted by Unknown in 1654.

Where can I see Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod)?

Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod) is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod)

Dracunculus vulgaris (almindelig dragerod) is an unspecified work on paper by Unknown. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1654 by the artist identified as 35199_person, this image depicts a solitary specimen of Dracunculus vulgaris, commonly known as the dragon arum. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography and presents the plant against an unadorned backdrop, emphasizing its form and coloration.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a single dragon arum, showing its glossy, elongated leaves and a prominent, deep‑red spathe that crowns the stalk. A withered, brown seed capsule hangs beneath, highlighting the plant’s life cycle from bloom to seed dispersal. The straightforward setting invites close observation of the species’ distinctive morphology.

Technique & Style

The artist renders the foliage with meticulous attention to surface texture, capturing the sheen of the leaves and the intricate network of veins. A restrained palette of greens and earth tones dominates, while the vivid scarlet of the flower provides a stark visual counterpoint. The rendering suggests a careful, almost scientific approach to botanical illustration.

History & Provenance

The image entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings sometime after its creation in the mid‑17th century, though exact acquisition details remain undocumented. Its attribution to 35199_person reflects cataloguing conventions rather than a widely recognized name, indicating the work’s provenance is primarily institutional.

Context

During the 1650s, botanical illustration served both artistic and scholarly purposes, documenting plant species for study and collection. This piece aligns with that tradition, offering a clear, isolated view of Dracunculus vulgaris that would have been valuable for naturalists and collectors interested in exotic flora.