Phalaenopsis esmeralda var candidula 1885 - 1906

Jean Jules Linden, a 19th-century botanist and horticulturist, created this botanical illustration of the Phalaenopsis esmeralda var candidula. Linden lived during a time when Europe was captivated by exploration, imperialism, and natural sciences. This piece reflects not just a scientific interest, but also the aesthetics and values of the colonial era. These orchids, native to Southeast Asia, were considered exotic treasures brought back to Europe and often symbolized the control of Europeans over distant lands and resources. Linden himself ventured to South America, collecting and studying plants. His experiences shaped his understanding and presentation of the natural world, framing it within a narrative of discovery and possession. Notice the delicate rendering of the orchid’s petals, a blend of scientific precision and artistic interpretation, representing a vision of nature that is both beautiful and subservient to the observer.