Et Glas med Blomster, Convolvolus, Nelliker m. v. 1763 - 1809

Elias Meyer created this etching, "A Glass with Flowers, Convolvulus, Carnation, etc.", in the late 18th or early 19th century. Still life paintings of flowers were popular at that time, often laden with symbolic meaning. However, in this black and white print, the artist is exploring the immediacy of visual representation. Consider how the image creates meaning through lines and shading. The arrangement of the flowers in a glass vase set on a stone plinth is a cultural reference to formal garden design. Meyer was working in Denmark. At that time, the country was experiencing a cultural blossoming alongside the development of scientific botany. Perhaps he was interested in how both art and science could illuminate the natural world. As historians, we can use various research resources to understand Meyer's influences and intentions better. By studying the artistic trends and cultural context of his time, we gain insight into the meaning of art as something deeply connected to its social and institutional environment.