Artwork
Phacelia tanacetifolia
Phacelia tanacetifolia 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
Phacelia tanacetifolia is a 1928 photogravure print by Karl Blossfeldt, a German photographer and sculptor.
Subject & Meaning
The print is a close-up image of two spiky plants with radiating leaves and small, barely visible buds or flowers at their centers. It is part of a series highlighting the structural beauty of botanical forms, reflecting Blossfeldt's lifelong interest in nature and plant growth.
Technique & Style
The photogravure technique used creates deep blacks and soft grays, emphasizing the plants' forms through chiaroscuro. The plain, light background makes the dark leaves stand out sharply, giving the image a detailed, observational quality.
History & Provenance
Published in 1929 as part of Urformen der Kunst, the print is now held in the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Artist & collection
Artist
Karl Blossfeldt (13 June 1865 – 9 December 1932) was a German photographer and sculptor.
