Citrus limon (almindelig citron); Citrus maxima (pompelmus) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker made this botanical study of citrus fruits, painted on vellum, likely in the mid-17th century. Vellum, a parchment made from calf skin, provided a smooth, fine surface ideal for detailed illustrations, commonly used in botanical studies of the period. The naturalistic style, the precision and detail of the plant’s anatomy, and the layering of color reveal the skilled hand of the artist. Holtzbecker’s technique involved building up thin layers of pigment to capture the subtle variations in color and texture. The materials themselves – high-quality vellum, costly pigments, and fine brushes – reflect the patronage of wealthy collectors interested in science. However, it is the cultural significance of the subject matter itself that is most evocative. Citrus fruits, once rare and exotic, were luxury commodities associated with trade, exploration, and colonial exchange. The artist invites us to consider the social and economic contexts that shaped the production of both the artwork and the fruits depicted, blurring the lines between art, craft, and commerce.