Rosier a feuilles de Laitue 1817 - 1824

Curator: What a delicate composition! The pink is so very light. Editor: It certainly is. We’re looking at “Rosier a feuilles de Laitue,” or Lettuce-leaved Rose, by François Langlois, dating from 1817 to 1824. This lovely work is held here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. It is crafted with ink and watercolor on paper. Curator: Watercolor lends itself beautifully to botanical illustration. I wonder about the quality of the paper itself. Was it handmade, what were the production practices in the French paper mills at the time? The translucent nature of the pigment applications lets light reflect through the paper. Editor: During this era, France was experiencing a resurgence of interest in botanical studies and natural history illustration. The French monarchy often supported botanical illustration as propaganda. I mean promotion of its national prestige and scientific endeavors. How do you think this fits into that cultural narrative? Curator: It is a display of controlled, refined horticultural skill. The attention to detail is magnificent, but more important to me is that it speaks to labor. Someone cultivated the rose. Someone manufactured the paper. The industrial element fascinates. The distribution systems of these items during the early 19th century in France certainly were influenced by socio-political dynamics of the time. Editor: Precisely! And its presence here at Mia underscores the historical role museums play in shaping aesthetic taste and historical narratives. Its display elevates this scientific record to a level of art and design. I find myself wanting to know, what message did Langlois wish to send to the viewers? Did the royal court view this piece favorably, and for what reasons? Curator: It makes you question the concept of 'natural', doesn’t it? The materials used and the way this botanical piece has been crafted challenges us to consider it's history through different lens of skill and cultural perception. Editor: Absolutely. Viewing this piece and having access to such social insight enriches the impact for any and all viewers. Curator: I agree entirely. Thank you! Editor: Thank you!