Artwork

Iris latifolia (engelsk iris)

Iris latifolia (engelsk iris), by Unknown, unspecified, 1654
Iris latifolia (engelsk iris), by Unknown, unspecified, 1654

Iris latifolia (engelsk iris) 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 watercolor composition is part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography. The work presents a close‑up study of three iris blossoms rendered against an unadorned background, allowing the viewer to focus on the plants’ form and coloration.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features three irises—one deep violet, one blue, and one white—each anchored by slender, sword‑shaped leaves and a modest bulbous base. By isolating the flowers from any surrounding context, the artist emphasizes the natural elegance and subtle variations among the species, inviting contemplation of botanical diversity.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolor, the piece demonstrates a layered approach in which translucent washes build volume and depth. Fine brushwork captures the delicate texture of petals and the faint root structures of the bulbs, while soft gradations of hue create a realistic yet gently idealized surface.

History & Provenance

The work entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings after its creation in the mid‑17th century, though details of its acquisition remain sparse. Its attribution to 35199_person situates it within a period when detailed botanical illustration was gaining prominence as both scientific documentation and artistic pursuit.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known