Artwork

Black-eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan, by Pancrace Bessa, 1832
Black-eyed Susan, by Pancrace Bessa, 1832

Black-eyed Susan is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Pancrace Bessa. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Black-eyed Susan is a drawing created by Pancrace Bessa in 1832. It is a precise botanical illustration characteristic of Bessa's style, showcasing his attention to detail.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two yellow flowers with dark centers on a single stem, accompanied by a sketch of the flower's seed pod and buds. The level of detail suggests a scientific as well as artistic purpose.

Technique & Style

Bessa's work is marked by a delicate and detailed approach, capturing the texture of petals and the veins in leaves. This level of precision was typical of botanical illustrations in the 19th century.

History & Provenance

The drawing is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Bessa, trained under Gerard van Spaendonck and associated with Pierre-Joseph Redouté, frequently exhibited at the Paris Salons.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pancrace Bessa

Artist

Pancrace Bessa

Pancrace Bessa (1 January 1772 – 11 June 1846) was a French natural history artist, best known for his botanical illustrations.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.