Narcissus pseudonarcissus moschatus (moskus-narcis); Narcissus ×medioluteus (toblomstret narcis); Narcissus pseudonarcissus major (stor påskelilje) 1649 - 1659

This watercolor on paper was made by Hans Simon Holtzbecker. It meticulously depicts three varieties of narcissus. The composition is structured by the verticality of the stems and leaves, establishing a rhythmic visual cadence across the picture plane. The varying yellows and whites of the blossoms create tonal contrasts which draw the eye, while the bulbs at the base offer a grounding element, anchoring the floral display. The artwork can be understood through the lens of structuralism, noting how Holtzbecker uses specific, coded representations of each flower type. Each narcissus variant, with its distinct morphology, acts as a signifier within a broader system of botanical classification. Through the detailed rendering of form and texture, Holtzbecker not only captures the visual essence of these flowers but also contributes to the era’s developing scientific understanding. Ultimately, it's the formal structure of Holtzbecker’s work that elevates it beyond mere documentation, inviting contemplation on the structured beauty of the natural world.