Narcissus calathinus

Redouté employed watercolor and graphite on vellum, utilizing a magnifying lens to capture intricate vein details in the leaves. The petals feature pure white with thin red edges, achieved through up to 30 translucent glazes to build depth of color.

Created in 1809 for Empress Joséphine's floral documentation project at Malmaison, the piece is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, D.C.

Redouté's work, including Narcissus calathinus, was influenced by his role as a court artist, first to Marie Antoinette and later to Empress Joséphine, spanning the French Revolution and beyond.

Narcissus calathinus contributes to Redouté's legacy as a leading botanical artist, known for detailed, scientifically accurate illustrations that also possess aesthetic appeal.