Artwork
Symphytum officianale
Symphytum officianale 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
Symphytum officinale is a 1928 photogravure by Karl Blossfeldt, a German photographer and sculptor. The print is a detailed representation of the comfrey plant.
Subject & Meaning
The image centers on the comfrey plant, capturing its fuzzy stems and leaves in high detail. Blossfeldt's focus on the plant's morphology highlights the intricate structures of nature.
Technique & Style
Executed in photogravure, the print is characterized by its high level of detail and textured representation of the plant's surfaces. The black and white image features a light gray background, emphasizing the plant's forms.
History & Provenance
The work was published in Blossfeldt's book Urformen der Kunst in 1929. It is now held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Context
Blossfeldt's artistic approach was influenced by his father and his lifelong study of botanical growth, reflecting his background in both photography and sculpture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Karl Blossfeldt (13 June 1865 – 9 December 1932) was a German photographer and sculptor.
