Basket of Roses - Masterpiece Jigsaw Puzzle
Roger Godchaux (French b. 1878)
Laurel Ink 500 piece puzzles measure 18" x 24".
Retail $12.95

Basket of Roses (from back of puzzle box)
Roger Godchaux (French b. 1878)
The earliest depictions of flowers in art were in the form of realistic botanical illustrations for the purpose of researching medicinal herbs. In the seventeenth century, there arose a new interest in illustrating plants for the sole purpose of capturing their beauty and rarity. This trend paved the way for the creation of an art form that would experience criticism, transformation an praise throughout the centuries, eventually becoming academically respected and universally admired.

The Dutch were the pioneers of Flower Painting, although artist in England, France, Germany, and Austria also produced renowned works in the genre. Dutch and Flemish artist, such as Jan van Huysum and Rachel Ruysch, exemplified a mastery of refined detail while portraying colorful richness in their paintings. Although French historic and landscape painters often considered botanical art simply a decorative pastime, the botanical artists lacked neither passion nor patronage. The Flower Painters were slowly accepted into the Salons of France, and the art form took on a new standard of excellence when the Dutch artist brought their talent and history to France. Flemish-born Pierre-Joseph Redoute became known as the "Raphael des roses" and work for such famous historical figures as Marie-Antoinette and Louis Philippe.

The achievements of the classical Flower Painters were far reaching. Their influence led artists of every stature and genre to occasionally paint flowers throughout their careers, even if only to form a small part of their "oeuvre." This art from was also accessible to female artist at a time when women were restricted in their roles and privileges. The works of these artists were applied to many media such as watercolor on vellum, oil on canvas, wood cutting, etching, engraving, needlework and textiles. Whether botanical renderings were produced for science or pure artistry, the artist's reverence for the subject is apparent, and the portrayal of flowers, leaves, stems and roots is exquisite.

Born in France, Roger Godchaux was primarily known for his work as a sculptor. He exhibited frequently at the Paris Salon, and in 1928 he was awarded a gold medal for sculpture.

Training as an artist at the end of the nineteenth century, Godchaux was evidently influenced by the Flower Painters that preceded him. Red, pink, and white roses, such the ones depicted in Godchaux's Basket of Roses, remained a favorite amongst the Flower Painters throughout the century.

New: packaged/shrink wrapped 14"x14" boxed.

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