Peony 1820 - 1833

Anton Weiss made this 'Peony' drawing, using graphite on paper, sometime in the first half of the 19th century. The medium of graphite lends itself beautifully to botanical illustration. By varying the pressure, the artist captures the delicate gradations of tone, and meticulous details in the flower's petals and leaves. Weiss's use of graphite creates a tactile sense of the flower's soft texture, with the smooth surface of the paper contrasting with the intricate details of the rendering. The tradition of botanical illustration has served scientific and aesthetic purposes, documenting the natural world with precision. This required a deep understanding of botany as well as a mastery of drawing techniques. Weiss's Peony reflects this intersection of scientific observation and artistic skill, typical of the period. Paying attention to these aspects of material, process and context allows us to see this artwork as more than just a pretty picture. It's a document of a particular moment in time, reflecting the values and practices of both art and science.