Tak met drie gele lelies Possibly 1834 - 1836

This is Tak met drie gele lelies, meaning 'Branch with three yellow lilies', an undated botanical study by M. de Gijselaar. Works like this reflect a specific moment in the history of science, when detailed observation and recording of the natural world became a widespread cultural phenomenon. Much of this activity was fueled by European colonialism and the desire to understand and exploit the resources of newly 'discovered' lands. The level of detail, captured through careful strokes and a limited palette, would have served a practical purpose, allowing the flowers to be identified even without seeing them in person. In the Dutch context, botanical art had a particular resonance, given the country's thriving trade in exotic plants and flowers, as well as the scientific tradition cultivated in its universities and gardens. Understanding this image fully requires us to delve into the social history of science, exploring the complex relationship between art, knowledge, and power.