Artwork

The Botanical Magazine or Flower Garden Displayed: Star of Bethlehem

The Botanical Magazine or Flower Garden Displayed: Star of Bethlehem is a print by the Romanticist artist William Curtis. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Botanical Magazine or Flower Garden Displayed: Star of Bethlehem, created by William Curtis in 1794, is a botanical print featuring a detailed representation of a plant species. The work is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a single branch of the Star of Bethlehem plant, characterized by small, downward-hanging white flowers in various stages of bloom, alongside long green leaves. The illustration serves a botanical purpose, aiming to accurately document the plant's appearance.

Technique & Style

Executed in soft watercolor strokes on light-colored paper, the drawing emphasizes clarity and precision. A handwritten note in the corner likely provides the plant's identification, reflecting the scientific intent of the work.

History & Provenance

Created in 1794 by William Curtis, the print is now held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art, indicating its recognized value in botanical illustration history.

Context

This type of detailed, scientifically oriented plant drawing was typical in 18th-century botanical publications, highlighting the intersection of art and natural history during this period.