Lilium martagon Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

The composition presents a botanical study of a single plant, rendered with meticulous detail against a subtly textured background. The artist has chosen a vertical format that emphasizes the plants upward growth and height. A slender stem dominates the central axis, supporting a cluster of downward-facing blossoms at its apex. These flowers exhibit a complex arrangement of petals in shades of deep rose and burgundy, punctuated by prominent stamens.
The foliage is equally carefully observed; broad leaves emerge from the base of the plant, gradually diminishing in size as they ascend the stem. The artist’s rendering captures the subtle variations in color and tone within each leaf, suggesting a keen understanding of botanical structure and light interaction. A delicate network of veins is visible on several leaves, further enhancing the sense of realism.
The background appears to be an off-white surface with faint speckling, which avoids distraction from the subject matter while providing a neutral space for the plants form to stand out. The lighting seems diffused, illuminating the plant evenly and minimizing harsh shadows.
Beyond its purely descriptive function, this work suggests a deeper engagement with the natural world. The precision of the observation implies an interest in scientific classification or documentation. There is a sense of reverence conveyed through the artist’s dedication to accurately portraying the plants form; it speaks to a desire to understand and record the intricacies of nature. The solitary presentation of the plant, isolated against the background, might also evoke themes of fragility, resilience, and the quiet beauty found within individual organisms.