Meerkleurige tulp 1617

"Meerkleurige tulp," meaning "multicolored tulip," is an engraving by Crispijn van de Passe (II) from 1617, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. This intricate artwork showcases the beauty of a single, fully bloomed tulip with delicate, hatched lines capturing the flower's intricate texture and the subtle variations in its shades. The inclusion of a small bee buzzing nearby adds a touch of realism and movement to this detailed botanical illustration, highlighting the Dutch fascination with the tulip during the 17th century. The engraving's small size, measuring 222 mm in height and 132 mm in width, further emphasizes the artist's meticulous attention to detail.