Forever Flowers

If flowers could talk... In Forever Flowers, restorer and head of the conservation studio of The Phoebus Foundation, Sven Van Dorst (1990), offers a fresh perspective on Flemish flower still lifes from the early modern period (1600-1700). Eight paintings, prints, and drawings from the collection of The Phoebus Foundation serve as the basis to discuss the intricacies of this genre. With his unique approach, the author-restorer sheds light on the knowledge and craftsmanship behind painted bouquets. Through material-technical research and experiments, he establishes connections and demonstrates the outstanding expertise of the early modern creators of these painted gems. In this book, Van Dorst unfolds new insights about eight fascinating works and invites the reader to view the flower still life genre differently. One by one, intriguing stories blossom about the religious significance of flowers, exotic species and international connections, the use of real butterfly wings in paintings, and previously undiscovered aspects of these refined still lifes.

Image credits:

2.Jan I Brueghel_Flowers in a Vase_(c)The Phoebus Foundation Antwerp
2D.Detail_Jan I Brueghel_Flowers in a Vase_(c)The Phoebus Foundation Antwerp
4B.Detail_Jan Davidsz. De Heem_Vase of Flowers with Vanitas Symbols_(c)The Phoebus Foundation Antwerp
5D.Detail_ Diego Quispe Tito_The Child Virgin Spinning_(c)The Phoebus Foundation Antwerp
6E.Detail_Daniël Seghers_Garland of Flowers Surrounding the Marriage of Mary and Joseph_(c)The Phoebus Foundation Antwerp