Iris latifolia (engelsk iris); Iris sibirica (sibirisk iris) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker made this botanical study of Iris latifolia and Iris sibirica using watercolor and gouache. The artist has masterfully blended watercolor washes to capture the petals' velvety texture and the delicate venation. Holtzbecker’s craft is evident in his precise application of pigment, building up layers of translucent color to describe the complex forms. The choice of watercolor and gouache would have allowed for detailed work and a luminous finish, perfectly suited to capturing the ephemeral beauty of these flowering plants. This aesthetic appreciation of the natural world, evident in the meticulous rendering of each petal and leaf, reflects an emerging culture of scientific observation. The artist's careful process and skilled hand are what allows us to truly appreciate not just the visual representation, but also the dedication and artistry involved in preserving a piece of nature on paper. This challenges the divide between scientific illustration and artistic expression.