Artwork

Saxifraga rotundifolia (rundbladet stenbræk); Saxifraga umbrosa (skygge-stenbræk); Saxifraga geum (porcelænsblomst)

Saxifraga rotundifolia (rundbladet stenbræk); Saxifraga umbrosa (skygge-stenbræk); Saxifraga geum (porcelænsblomst) is an unspecified work on paper by Unknown. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created around 1654, this botanical illustration depicts three distinct Saxifraga species—S.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1654, this botanical illustration depicts three distinct Saxifraga species—S. rotundifolia, S. umbrosa, and S. geum. Rendered as a single image, the work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The composition presents each plant against a neutral background, allowing the foliage and flowers to be examined without distraction.

Subject & Meaning

The image serves as a comparative study of three closely related alpine plants. S. rotundifolia is shown with a rounded leaf, S. umbrosa with delicate purple buds, and S. geum bearing clusters of tiny blue blossoms. By juxtaposing the forms, the illustration highlights variations in leaf shape and flower color within the genus, reflecting a scientific interest in plant taxonomy.

Technique & Style

Executed in a precise, almost photographic manner, the drawing emphasizes fine line work and subtle shading to convey texture. The delicate rendering of leaf veins and petal surfaces suggests the use of watercolor, a medium favored by 17th‑century naturalists for its capacity to capture translucency and color nuance while maintaining accuracy.

History & Provenance

Attributed to the artist identified as 35199_person, the piece dates to the mid‑17th century, a period when botanical illustration was integral to scientific exploration. It entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains a representative example of early modern plant documentation.