Artwork

Narcissus pseudonarcissus (påskelilje)

Narcissus pseudonarcissus (påskelilje), by Unknown, unspecified, 1650
Narcissus pseudonarcissus (påskelilje), by Unknown, unspecified, 1650

Narcissus pseudonarcissus (påskelilje) 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

Created around 1650 by the artist known as 35199_person, this small-scale image depicts two distinct narcissus flowers set against an unadorned background. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography and is identified by the title Narcissus pseudonarcissus (påskelilje).

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a bright yellow narcissus with six petals alongside a paler, almost white counterpart featuring a rounded form and delicate, thin petals. Both specimens rest on slender stems, emphasizing the natural variation within the species and inviting close observation of their contrasting hues.

Technique & Style

The artist renders the flowers with meticulous attention to surface texture, capturing the subtle veining of leaves and the soft gradations of petal coloration. Careful shading and fine line work create a near‑realistic appearance, suggesting a study of botanical form rather than decorative embellishment.

History & Provenance

Dating to the mid‑17th century, the image has remained within the holdings of the Museum of Ethnography, where it contributes to the institution’s representation of early natural‑history illustration.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known