Artwork
A Flower Piece
A Flower Piece is a print by the Romanticist artist Richard Earlom. It dates from 1778 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1941.92
- Credit line
- Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland, a 25th anniversary gift
About this work
Overview
Richard Earlom’s 1778 print titled A Flower Piece is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection. The work presents a large vase overflowing with a variety of blossoms, surrounded by foliage, cherubic figures, and a few birds, set against a dimly lit background that hints at a fountain and classical statuary.
Subject & Meaning
The central motif is a lavish floral arrangement, rendered with both opulent blooms and delicate leaves. Playful cherubs peering through the greenery and perched birds introduce a lighthearted counterpoint to the otherwise formal display, suggesting a blend of natural abundance and mythological whimsy.
Technique & Style
Earlom employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, using stark contrasts between illuminated petals and deep shadows to give the flowers a three‑dimensional presence. The engraving’s fine line work captures the texture of petals and feathers, while the darker background recedes, creating a dramatic spatial depth typical of late‑18th‑century printmaking.
History & Provenance
Created in 1778, the print has remained in public holdings and is now owned by the Cleveland Museum of Art. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s active period in England, where he produced a series of decorative prints that circulated among collectors of the era.
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