Bellis perennis (almindelig tusindfryd) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker made this botanical study of daisies with watercolor and gouache on parchment. The detailed realism achieved with these materials is remarkable. Parchment offers a smooth, absorbent surface, ideal for layering delicate washes of color. Holtzbecker uses this to his advantage, capturing the subtle gradations of tone in the leaves and petals, and the fine hairs of the roots. Gouache adds opacity, allowing him to build up highlights and textures, defining the intricate structures of the daisy heads. This level of meticulous detail suggests a commission, perhaps for a wealthy patron interested in botany. In this context, the artwork becomes not just a scientific record, but a display of wealth and status. The labor-intensive process speaks to a culture of patronage, where skilled artists were employed to create bespoke objects of beauty and knowledge. Considering the time and effort involved in its creation, it's clear that "Bellis perennis" is far more than just a simple botanical illustration. It is an intersection of art, science, and social context, where the materials and methods used reflect the values and priorities of its time.