Lilium candidum (madonna-lilje) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker rendered this botanical study of Lilium candidum in the mid-17th century, using watercolor on vellum. Holtzbecker was a sought-after artist in Hamburg, celebrated for his meticulous depictions of flora and fauna. The choice of vellum as a ground is significant. Made from animal skin, it provided a smooth, durable surface, ideal for capturing fine detail with translucent layers of watercolor. Notice how Holtzbecker uses delicate brushstrokes to render the subtle gradations of color in the lily’s petals and leaves. The layered pigment creates a sense of depth and volume, bringing the plant to life on the page. The artistic techniques employed are rooted in a long tradition of botanical illustration, where accuracy and realism were paramount. But beyond its scientific value, Holtzbecker’s image possesses a quiet beauty, reflecting the enduring human fascination with the natural world, and the labour involved in its depiction. It's a reminder that even the most seemingly objective images are shaped by the materials, processes, and cultural values of their time.