Artwork

Rosa hemisphaerica (svovlgul rose); Rosa gallica (fløjls-rose); Rosa ×damascena (damascener-rose)

Rosa hemisphaerica (svovlgul rose); Rosa gallica (fløjls-rose); Rosa ×damascena (damascener-rose) is an unspecified work on paper by Unknown. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The work, dated around 1654 and attributed to the artist identified as 35199_person, presents a study of four cultivated roses.

About this work

Overview

The work, dated around 1654 and attributed to the artist identified as 35199_person, presents a study of four cultivated roses. Executed as an image, it is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The composition isolates the blossoms against a neutral backdrop, emphasizing their form and hue.

Subject & Meaning

Each rose represents a distinct variety: a yellow Rosa hemisphaerica, a deep‑red Rosa gallica, a pink Rosa × damascena, and a pale‑white counterpart. The selection highlights the diversity of color and structure within cultivated roses, inviting comparison of their botanical characteristics.

Technique & Style

The artist renders the petals in layered strokes that convey translucency and depth, while the foliage is delineated with fine veining. The plain background eliminates distraction, allowing the meticulous rendering of texture and light on each bloom to dominate the visual field.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑17th century, the image has remained in institutional care and is currently housed at the Museum of Ethnography. Its attribution to 35199_person reflects cataloguing conventions rather than a widely recognized name, indicating limited archival information about the creator.