Who painted Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon)?

Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon) was painted by Unknown in 1654.

Where can I see Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon)?

Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon) is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon)

Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon) 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, the work titled *Paeonia lactiflora (silke-pæon)* is attributed to the artist catalogued as 35199_person. The piece is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography and is presented as an image rather than a physical object. Its composition centers on a solitary white flower set against a muted, light‑beige background.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a single peony, its blossoms composed of numerous overlapping petals that give the flower a soft, rounded appearance. The central mass is dense, emphasizing the flower’s fullness, while the surrounding foliage consists of long, narrow green leaves that fan out symmetrically on either side of the stem.

Technique & Style

Rendered in watercolor, the artist achieves a subtle sheen on the foliage through careful modulation of pigment and water. The petals are portrayed with smooth, even washes that convey a delicate texture, contrasting with the slightly glossier treatment of the leaves. The overall palette is restrained, focusing attention on form rather than color.

History & Provenance

The work dates to the mid‑17th century, a period when botanical illustration was gaining prominence in European art. It entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains catalogued under its original title and attributed to the same anonymous creator, identified in the museum’s records as 35199_person.