Blad met bloemen en vruchten 1762 - 1800

Johann Georg Edlinger made this sheet with flowers and fruits using an unspecified printmaking technique in the late eighteenth or early nineteenth century. Floral designs were widely popular in Europe at the time, particularly among the upper classes. The image presents a dense, overall pattern of flowers, leaves and fruits, reminiscent of textile or wallpaper designs. Its creation coincides with the rise of industrialization and the growth of the middle class. In the context of mass production, such decorative arts became increasingly accessible, reflecting a shift in taste and consumption patterns. This design suggests a growing interest in naturalism. It's worth investigating how botanical illustration and the scientific study of plants influenced Edlinger's work. By delving into the history of decorative arts and the social context in which this sheet was produced, we can better understand its significance as a cultural artifact of its time.