Dactylorhiza maculata (plettet gøgeurt) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker’s *Dactylorhiza maculata (plettet gøgeurt)* (1649-1659) is a botanical illustration that captures the delicate beauty of the spotted orchid. The artwork is part of a larger series of botanical illustrations, showcasing Holtzbecker's skill in capturing the intricate details of nature. The painting features several spotted orchids in various stages of growth, displaying their distinctive pink and white blooms, slender stems, and leaves. The detailed representation of the plant's roots adds a scientific element to the artwork, reflecting the growing interest in natural history during this period. *Dactylorhiza maculata (plettet gøgeurt)* is currently housed at the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, offering a glimpse into the artistic and scientific endeavors of 17th-century Denmark.