Capnoides sempervirens (harlekinurt); Corydalis solida (langstilket lærkespore) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker made this botanical illustration of Capnoides sempervirens and Corydalis solida, using watercolor on paper. The meticulous detail and delicate application of pigment speak to a tradition of botanical illustration, where accuracy was paramount. Holtzbecker likely employed fine brushes and a light touch to capture the subtle gradations of color in the flowers and leaves. The paper itself, likely handmade, provides a smooth surface for the watercolor to flow, allowing for the creation of translucent washes and crisp lines. The practice of botanical illustration was intertwined with scientific exploration and documentation. These images weren't merely decorative; they served as vital records for botanists and apothecaries. The time-consuming nature of watercolor, with its emphasis on control and precision, reflects the labor involved in both artistic creation and scientific inquiry. The act of carefully rendering each petal and leaf underscores a deep engagement with the natural world, blurring the lines between art, science, and craft.