Narcissus pseudonarcissus; Narcissus ? ×incomparabilis (have-narcis) 1649 - 1659

Hans Simon Holtzbecker created this watercolor and gouache painting of "Narcissus pseudonarcissus" and "Narcissus ? × incomparabilis" on parchment. Holtzbecker was working in a time where botanical illustration was not just art, but a form of scientific documentation and a status symbol. These depictions of daffodils aren't just about capturing the plant's likeness; they reflect a complex relationship between humans and the natural world. During the 17th century, flowers, particularly exotic varieties, were deeply tied to wealth, trade, and colonialism. The detail given to each stage of the plant is not merely scientific; it is a celebration of nature's beauty and intricacy. Each carefully rendered petal and root speaks to the labor, knowledge, and resources required to cultivate and document these specimens. The painting prompts us to reflect on the historical context in which it was made, and the power dynamics inherent in the act of observing and documenting the natural world. It invites us to consider our relationship with nature and our role in shaping it.