Who painted Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid)?

Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid) was painted by Unknown in 1654.

Where can I see Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid)?

Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid) is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid)

Iris ×lurida (iris-hybrid) is an unspecified work on paper by Unknown. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Iris × lurida is a botanical illustration dating from around 1654, attributed to the artist recorded as 35199_person.

About this work

Overview

Iris × lurida is a botanical illustration dating from around 1654, attributed to the artist recorded as 35199_person. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography and is presented as a digital image. It depicts a close‑up study of three iris specimens, emphasizing fine botanical details within a light‑toned background.

Subject & Meaning

The image focuses on three iris flowers, each rendered with dark purple petals accented by yellow and white markings at the centers. Long, slender green leaves frame the blossoms, while the lower portion reveals the roots extending into the surrounding space. The composition serves as a scientific observation, highlighting the plant’s morphology rather than conveying narrative content.

Technique & Style

Executed with meticulous attention to texture, the drawing captures the delicate veining of the petals and the fibrous quality of the roots. The rendering suggests a layered approach akin to watercolor, where translucent washes build depth and realism. Such precision aligns with 17th‑century botanical illustration practices, which combined artistic skill with empirical documentation.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑17th century, the work has remained within institutional holdings, currently residing at the Museum of Ethnography. Its attribution to 35199_person reflects cataloguing conventions rather than a widely recognized name, indicating the piece’s provenance is traced primarily through museum records rather than a celebrated artistic lineage.