101 - G. HOFMANN (19th), Yellow mullein, 1863, Watercolor

G. HOFMANN (19th), Yellow mullein, 1863, Watercolor G. Hofmann (19th century): Yellow mullein Detailed botanical illustration of a flowering plant, 1863, Watercolor Technique: Watercolor on Paper Inscription: Lower right signed: "G. Hofmann". Lower right dated: "1863". Date: 1863 Description: The watercolour shows a botanically accurate depiction of a yellow flowering mullein (Verbascum), characteristically with an upright flower panicle and soft, felty leaves. The flowers with their five pale yellow petals and red stamens are depicted in various stages from bud to full bloom. The colouring is restrained but richly nuanced, with fine shades of yellow and green. The work is executed on a lightly tinted paper and emphasises the scientific and didactic function of the plant by leaving it exposed. Stylistically, the sheet can be assigned to the 19th century tradition of scientific illustration, with a clear affinity to botanical educational charts. Keywords: Botany, 19th century, Romanticism, Flowers, Germany, Size: Paper: 24,0 cm x 19,7 cm (9,4 x 7,8 in), Depiction: 17,8 cm x 9,9 cm (7 x 3,9 in) Condition: Rather good condition. The artwork shows various visible foxing spots over the entire surface, especially in the margins. A small loss of paper is recognisable in the upper left and upper right corner. Minor discolouration and traces of use are present. There is a short tear in the lower right margin.