Crocus Syber. Safran ou Crocus de Siberie. c. early 19th century

This watercolor of Crocus Syber, or saffron, was made by an anonymous artist. Depicting a flowering plant, it’s a reminder of how the natural world is often viewed through a cultural lens. During periods of colonialism, botanical illustrations served as a way to document and classify the flora of newly ‘discovered’ lands. They were a tool of scientific exploration, but also reflect power dynamics inherent in the act of naming and owning nature. Consider the artist’s anonymity. Who were they, and what was their relationship to the plant? Were they indigenous, part of the colonial project, or perhaps someone else entirely? The delicate rendering of the crocus invites us to reflect on the intersection of science, colonialism, and identity. It’s an image of beauty, but also a silent witness to complex historical narratives.