Artwork
Macleya cordata
Macleya cordata is a print by Karl Blossfeldt. It dates from 1928 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Macleya cordata is a 1928 photogravure print by Karl Blossfeldt, a German photographer and sculptor. It is part of his Urformen der Kunst series, published in 1929.
Subject & Meaning
The print is a close-up of a Macleya cordata plant, showcasing its jagged leaves and twisty stems against a plain background. The image highlights the plant's structural beauty through precise, magnified detail.
Technique & Style
Blossfeldt used shading to create a three-dimensional effect, with dark and light areas accentuating the leaves' textured edges. The photogravure technique allowed for a high level of detail, merging scientific observation with artistic composition.
Context
Blossfeldt's work reflects his lifelong interest in organic growth, influenced by his father's engagement with the natural world. His photographs explore the intricate forms of plants, revealing their aesthetic qualities.
Artist & collection
Artist
Karl Blossfeldt (13 June 1865 – 9 December 1932) was a German photographer and sculptor.
