Iris 1617

"Iris" is a 17th-century engraving by Crispijn van de Passe (II), showcasing a detailed and delicate depiction of an Iris flower. The engraving, which is part of a larger series of botanical prints, features the flower's intricate structure, including its petals, leaves, and stem, with remarkable precision and detail. The artist's use of light and shadow brings a sense of depth and realism to the botanical subject, showcasing the beauty and scientific accuracy that characterized natural history illustrations during this period. This engraving, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies van de Passe's skill in capturing the essence of the natural world.