Iris 3 1896

Maurice Pillard Verneuil crafted this pochoir print titled "Iris 3," featuring stylized iris patterns, during the Art Nouveau movement. The iris, a symbol of eloquence, faith, hope, and wisdom, dominates, its form fluid and organic. Consider how the iris, historically associated with royalty in France, reappears in various guises throughout art history. From ancient Egyptian emblems of power to the fleur-de-lis, a symbol deeply entrenched in heraldry, its evolution reflects humanity's changing relationship with symbols of authority and inspiration. In medieval times, the iris was associated with the Virgin Mary. This shows how cultural memory imprints itself upon our understanding and use of visual motifs. The iris carries a certain emotional resonance as it taps into a collective, almost subconscious, recognition of beauty and meaning. Note how this floral motif, laden with historical and emotional weight, resurfaces, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different contexts.