Meidoorn (Crataegus) 1790s

Jan Anton Garemyn made this watercolor and gouache painting of a hawthorn branch, or "Meidoorn," likely in the late 18th century. At this time, scientific illustration flourished as part of the Enlightenment's project to classify and understand the natural world. Botanical art wasn't just about pretty pictures; it was deeply tied to colonial expansion, with artists documenting flora from newly "discovered" lands. Institutions like botanical gardens and museums played a key role, sponsoring expeditions and employing artists like Garemyn. Notice the careful detail in the leaves and berries. The artist renders the plant with scientific precision, with the plant named in different languages at the bottom of the image. Was Garemyn commenting on these social structures of his time? Probably not directly. But understanding the political and economic context in which he worked allows us to interpret this image beyond its aesthetic qualities. To explore further, delve into the archives of botanical gardens and scientific societies. Research the history of colonialism and its impact on the natural world. By examining these resources, we can uncover the complex relationship between art, science, and power in the 18th century.