Alcea rosea (have-stokrose) 1649 - 1659

This botanical illustration by Hans Simon Holtzbecker, titled "Alcea rosea (have-stokrose)", showcases the delicate beauty of the hollyhock flower. Created between 1649 and 1659, the artwork features two hollyhock stalks with blossoms and buds rendered in precise detail. The artist's meticulous attention to the plant's morphology is evident in the realistic portrayal of the leaves, stems, and flowers. This piece exemplifies the tradition of scientific illustration prevalent in the 17th century, blending artistic skill with botanical accuracy. The artwork is currently housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst.