The narcissus, or paperwhite, jonquil or daffodil as it is also called, is one of the most popular spring perennials in the world. Narcissi also have a great deal of historical significance in both art and mythology.
The beautiful Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection spurning the goddess Diana, and was turned into the flower that carries his name as punishment. Numerous botanical illustrators have created wonderful narcissus art pieces that plant and art lovers alike still enjoy today.
Works from watercolorists like Basilius Besler and Leonhart Fuchs represent some of the earliest surviving botanical illustrations, with the narcissus among them. Besler in particular created many narcissus art watercolors during his 16-year cataloging of one of the most fantastic gardens of 16th century Europe, that of Konrad von Gemmingen in Bavaria. Some most famous narcissus illustrations are Besler’s, with works such as “Narcissus I” and “Narcissus II”.
Other botanical artists, such as Louis van Houtte and Sydenham Edwards also produced narcissus art, but centuries later than Besler and Fuchs. “Achminenes Gloxinioeflora 1847” from van Houtte and “Curtis Botanical No. 945” from Edwards are beautiful examples of botanical prints from this period.
There are various other exceptional narcissus art prints by other artists like Wendy Russell and Magda Indigo provide a modern, non-scientific take on the flower, unlike their predecessors. Russel’s still life “2-Up Narcissus Vertical “, gives a homey feel to the famous flower, while Indigo’s “Daffodils-Narcissus” photograph captures details pervious botanical artists could only dream of.
