Radical insertion of leaves of ensatae: Iris Germanica 19th-20th century

Curator: This is "Radical insertion of leaves of ensatae: Iris Germanica," by G. Allen, held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It has a really stark, graphic quality. I'm struck by the material restraint; the limited palette really focuses attention on the plant's structure. Curator: Indeed. The iris, throughout history, has held potent symbolic weight, often associated with royalty and the Virgin Mary, representing faith and wisdom. Editor: It also makes me think about the paper it's printed on, the inks used, and the labor involved in its creation. These materials tell their own story. Curator: Absolutely. It brings to mind the layers of meaning we project onto the natural world, informed by centuries of art and cultural beliefs. Editor: And the act of reproducing it, making art accessible, yet removing it from its original context. Something is gained, something is lost. Curator: It's a fascinating intersection of nature, symbolism, and production. Editor: Definitely worth considering the complex journey of this plant depicted on paper.