Who painted Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel)?

Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel) was painted by Unknown in 1654.

Where can I see Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel)?

Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel) is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel)

Scolymus hispanicus (spansk guldtidsel) 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 by the artist catalogued as 35199_person, this watercolor illustration of Scolymus hispanicus—commonly known as Spanish golden thistle—is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection. The image presents a single plant against an unadorned background, emphasizing its form and coloration.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a spiny, green herbaceous plant bearing vivid yellow flower buds. The twisted stems and prominent thorns are rendered with precision, highlighting the botanical characteristics that would have been of interest to naturalists and scholars of the period.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolor, the illustration relies on fine brushwork to convey the texture of leaves and the subtle gradations of the buds. The restrained palette and lack of decorative elements reflect the scientific illustration conventions of the mid‑17th century, where accuracy superseded ornamental design.

History & Provenance

Attributed to an anonymous figure identified only by a catalog number, the piece dates to the mid‑1600s and has remained in the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings. Its survival offers insight into the visual documentation practices employed by early modern natural historians.