Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus) c. early 19th century

"Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus)" is an anonymous watercolor painting from the early 19th century. This botanical illustration showcases the delicate beauty of the saffron crocus, featuring two blossoms with their distinctive purple petals and yellow stamens. The artist's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the realistic depiction of the plant's leaves and the subtle shading that captures the texture of the flowers. This piece exemplifies the popular genre of botanical illustration which emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries, often used for scientific documentation and artistic appreciation of the natural world.