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Symphytum officinale

Karl Blossfeldt

Artwork Details

Symphytum officinale
1928
Karl Blossfeldt
rotogravure on paper
9 5/16 in x 12 1/8 in (23.65 cm x 30.8 cm)
Gift of Eeta Gershow
2014/2.12

On Display

Not currently on display

Description

Subject Matter:

This photograph depicts a closeup view of the fronds of a common comfrey plant. It sprouts up the middle of the frame and spreads its little buds outwards in a fan-like array. The surface of the plant's skin is covered in a myriad tiny bristles, lending its surface an almost fuzzy appearance. Using a handmade camera with a powerful magnifying lens, Blossfeldt was able to create richly detailed photographs of botanical specimens such as this. Printed in matte, green-black tones, this image originally appeared in the books, Urformen der Kunst  (1928) and Art Forms in Nature (1929), and accompanied other closeup views of plants and flowers. 

Physical Description:

This photograph depicts a closeup view of a plant against a light background.  

Usage Rights:

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