Flower painting became a popular genre during the 17th century, especially in the Netherlands. Detailed depictions of floral arrangements celebrated the beauty of nature but also allowed artists to demonstrate their technical skills. There was a growing fascination with the natural world in the Netherlands. The nation's increasing importance as a centre for international trade introduced its inhabitants to new exotic flowers and plants.
Through meticulous attention to detail, vibrant colours and skilful use of light and shadow, flower painters created seemingly life-like representations. However, the variety of flowers depicted often included species that bloom at different times of the year. Many of their floral arrangements would in fact be impossible to recreate in real life. Flower paintings remind us of the fleeting nature of life and beauty. They also illustrate how art is more than merely a faithful representation of the visible world.
This room traces the entire development of flower painting. With his lush, detailed arrangements, Jan Brueghel the Elder (1568–1625) was one of the pioneers of the genre. The floral compositions of Ambrosius Bosschaert (1573–1621) are precise if still somewhat static, while the dynamic arrangements and masterly rendering of flowers by Rachel Ruysch (1664–1750) made her one of the most successful and famous painters of the period.
