Boerenjasmijn 1799 - 1801

This is a monochrome print of Boerenjasmijn, or mock-orange blossom, by Pierre François Legrand. Its meticulous detail and botanical subject matter connects it to the scientific and artistic practices of its time. Prints like this one were common in 18th and 19th century Europe, driven by growing scientific interest in botany. It’s important to remember that this was also a time of European colonial expansion, and botanical illustration served as a tool for classifying and documenting the natural resources of newly acquired territories. These images weren't just scientific records; they were implicated in the economic and political projects of empire. Today, art historians consider how these prints reflect the complex interplay between art, science, and power. Detailed examination of the print, combined with archival research into the artist and the scientific networks of the time, can reveal its role in shaping our understanding of the natural world.