Rode bloem 1830 - 1837

M. de Gijselaar created this image of a red flower, or ‘Rode Bloem’, as it is titled, at an unknown date, using watercolour on paper. Given the traditions of Dutch flower painting, this image most likely dates from the 17th or 18th century. The detailed study of the flower’s botanical structure and its crisp rendering are typical of the period. The image relates to a wider cultural interest in botany, agriculture, and global trade. The Netherlands was a centre for such activities at this time. Note that while this piece celebrates nature, it also reflects the social and economic transformations associated with botanical study. We could deepen our understanding of this image by looking at similar botanical drawings. We might also consider the social status of the artist, the traditions of flower painting in the Netherlands, and the changing place of nature within a rapidly evolving global economy.