Twee tulpen met twee vliegen 1640 - 1645

Editor: So, here we have "Two Tulips with Two Flies" made between 1640 and 1645 by Jacob Marrel, a painting in watercolor. It looks very precise and scientific, almost. What stands out to you about this work? Curator: As a materialist, I immediately think of the tulip mania that gripped the Dutch Republic at this time. These aren’t just pretty flowers; they're commodities. These tulips, with their flamed petals, would have been highly prized, reflecting the intense desire and speculation surrounding particular bulbs. What do you make of the flies? Editor: That's a good point about the tulip mania, and it is important to acknowledge the class aspect, as tulip ownership would have been a privilege. As for the flies, are they included as part of the realism or for symbolism, maybe relating to vanity or decay? Curator: Consider the medium itself, watercolor. It’s a delicate, laborious technique perfectly suited to capturing the fragile beauty of these blooms. And think about the social context of botanical illustration – often commissioned by wealthy patrons who were eager to document and possess rare specimens. Do you see any link there? Editor: I see. So, the painting functions as both a scientific record and a symbol of status and wealth. It bridges the gap between art, science, and commerce, and the painstaking technique reflects that value! The flies may signify how fleeting or easily damaged beauty may be. Curator: Exactly! This piece invites us to examine the intersection of artistic skill, natural resources, and the social structures that assign value. It prompts us to consider who has access to beauty and knowledge, and what material conditions make such images possible. Editor: I'll certainly remember the role of materials and social context now, to look at art through a different lens.