A Bouquet of Flowers

Clara Peeters (Flemish) ca. 1612 Peeters holds a significant place in the history of European still life as one of its founding figures. During a time when female artists had limited access to study nude models, the genre of still life provided them with opportunities to showcase their artistic skills. In this particular composition, Peeters demonstrates her meticulous attention to detail by depicting naturalistic elements such as dewdrops, insect bites, and drooping tulips. These details evoke a sense of transience and decay, highlighting the ephemeral nature of the subject matter. Peeters also asserts her own artistic achievement by inscribing her signature in the stone ledge, strategically placed next to a fallen sprig of forget-me-nots. This juxtaposition serves to emphasize her authorship and individuality within the work. The crisp edges and keen observation displayed in Peeters' painting reflect the close connection between floral painting and botanical illustration during t