Who painted Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops?

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops was painted by Unknown in 1725.

Where can I see Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops?

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops?

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops

Unknown , 1725

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops is a print by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1725 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 2025.113
Credit line: Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund

About this work

The artist isn’t known, but the work feels more like a quick, lively sketch than a formal painting.

You see two lotus seed pods and a handful of spiky water caltrops floating on a pale background.

This painting was probably a wall print sold in Suzhou markets during the Qing dynasty. People bought them to decorate their homes, cheap, colorful, and easy to swap out. The artist isn’t known, but the work feels more like a quick, lively sketch than a formal painting.

If you like this quiet style, look up Qing dynasty (1644–1911) for more everyday art from the time.

Overview

Lotus Seeds and Water Caltrops is a print depicting aquatic plants on a pale background. Created by an unknown artist, it is characteristic of commercial prints sold in urban markets during the Qing dynasty.

Subject & Meaning

The print features two lotus seed pods and several water caltrops, rendered in a simple yet lively manner. The subjects are everyday natural motifs, suggesting the work is an example of popular, accessible art.

Technique & Style

Executed with a sense of spontaneity, the print has the feel of a quick sketch rather than a formal composition. Its style is subdued, reflecting a quiet, observational approach to its subjects.

History & Provenance

The print likely originated in Suzhou, a city known for its thriving print culture during the Qing dynasty. Such prints were sold as decorative items for homes, valued for their color and ease of replacement.