Tulipa gesneriana (have-tulipan) 1635 - 1664

Hans Simon Holtzbecker created this botanical illustration of Tulipa gesneriana, or have-tulipan, with meticulous detail using watercolor and gouache, a technique lending the image a rich, opaque texture. The composition focuses on two tulips set against a plain background, emphasizing their form and color. Holtzbecker’s precise brushwork captures the intricate patterns of the petals, where shades of deep red intertwine with white, creating a play of light and shadow. This attention to detail is not merely representational; it elevates the tulips to symbols of luxury and aesthetic value, reflecting the flower's cultural significance in the 17th century. By isolating the tulips, Holtzbecker directs our gaze to appreciate their inherent beauty and complexity. The tulips are more than just flowers; they are artifacts of a time when botany, art, and commerce intertwined, inviting us to reflect on how we assign worth and meaning to the natural world.