a Cirsium canum; b Phlomis umbrosa; c salvia
1928
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1928
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This is a close-up of three different plants, each shown in sharp detail. The top image shows a spiky flower with petals that look like starbursts. The middle one features a large, rounded leaf with a smooth stem. The bottom picture displays a cluster of small buds and a single open flower with soft, furry edges. The artist used a method that makes shadows and light stand out strongly, almost like a sketch. This style highlights the textures of the plants. Look up technique: chiaroscuro to learn more about how light and shadow create depth.