Rosa Gallica Agatha (Var. Parva Violacea) (1817 - 1824)

Rosa Gallica Agatha (Var. Parva Violacea), a delicate and intricate botanical illustration by Pierre Joseph Redouté, is a gorgeous depiction that highlights the artist’s meticulous approach to capturing the essence of floral subjects. Created between 1817 and 1824, this painting presents a vibrant and realistic portrayal of the Gallica rose, known for its rich history and profound symbolism in the language of flowers.The painting features a central, fully bloomed rose in deep shades of pink and crimson, surrounded by several buds in various stages of opening, suggesting the continuous cycle of life and renewal. The flowers are set against a stark, unadorned background that emphasizes the natural beauty of the subject. Each petal, leaf, and thorn is rendered with such precision and attention to detail that the viewer can almost feel the velvety texture of the petals and the sharpness of the thorns.Redouté's skill in using watercolors to achieve depth and vibrancy is evident in the way the colors gradate from deep crimson at the center of the flower to softer pinks at the edges. The leaves, depicted in varying shades of green with realistic venation, provide a lush, rich contrast to the bold colors of the blossoms.This exquisite illustration not only serves as a visual feast but is also an important historical document, preserving the beauty of botanical species that may have evolved or disappeared since the time of its creation.