Artwork

Mirabilis jalapa (vidunderblomst); Bellis perennis (almindelig tusindfryd)

Mirabilis jalapa (vidunderblomst); Bellis perennis (almindelig tusindfryd) is an unspecified work on paper by Unknown. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Mirabilis jalapa (vidunderblomst); Bellis perennis (almindelig tusindfryd) is a 17th-century botanical artwork, circa 1650, attributed to 35199_person, currently housed at the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork depicts five distinct flower species, prominently featuring Mirabilis jalapa with pink and white striped petals and a yellow center, alongside smaller flowers including a purple daisy-like bloom and a fuzzy red-and-white flower, all set amidst green foliage.

Technique & Style

Executed with careful attention to detail, the piece utilizes watercolor with soft shading to render the botanical subjects. Each flower is labeled with a numbered identifier, reflecting a scientific or illustrative approach.

History & Provenance

Created around 1650, the artwork's history prior to its acquisition by the Museum of Ethnography is not detailed here. It is attributed to 35199_person, with no further biographical context provided.

Context

This work exemplifies early modern European botanical illustration, characterized by detailed, colorful representations of plant life, often blending artistic skill with scientific documentation.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable recognition of this piece is not highlighted, it contributes to the broader legacy of 17th-century botanical art, providing insight into period techniques and the intersection of art and science.