Tagetes patula (udspærret fløjlsblomst); Tagetes erecta (opret fløjlsblomst) 1649 - 1659

This botanical illustration, created by Danish artist Hans Simon Holtzbecker between 1649 and 1659, depicts two types of marigolds: Tagetes patula and Tagetes erecta. Holtzbecker's meticulous detail captures the delicate beauty of the marigold's petals, leaves, and stems, showcasing the artist's mastery of botanical illustration. This work is part of a larger collection of botanical illustrations that were popular during the 17th century, as people sought to understand and classify the natural world. Today, it resides in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, a testament to its enduring artistic and scientific value.