Prunus padus (European Bird Cherry), Prunus avium (Sweet Cherry), Prunus cerasus (Sour Cherry), Prunus domestica (European Plum). Sheet 7 from the portfolio Nature Studies is a meticulous drawing created by Hilma af Klint in 1919. This detailed botanical illustration utilizes a complex combination of watercolor, pencil, ink, and metallic paint on paper, demonstrating Klint’s command over various media in her observational practice. It is one of 46 works comprising the larger Nature Studies portfolio, a focused set of drawings executed during a distinct period between May 27 and June 3, 1919.
The work captures four distinct Prunus species-the European Bird Cherry, Sweet Cherry, Sour Cherry, and European Plum-in a unique convergence of scientific documentation and expressive aesthetic interpretation. While Klint is internationally known for her pioneering contributions to abstract art and spiritual painting, she frequently produced rigorous, detailed botanical and scientific studies, which underpinned her broader esoteric research. In this piece, the observational accuracy required to distinguish these closely related cherry and plum varieties is tempered by the artist’s characteristic use of materials.
The integration of metallic paint, in particular, suggests an intent to capture the inherent luminosity and spiritual vitality of the living forms, elevating the work beyond a simple academic drawing to an illuminated study of natural science. Classified as a drawing, this piece is a vital example of the breadth of the Swedish artist’s disciplined output during the early 20th century.
This important work resides in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), representing a lesser-known but crucial element of Klint’s oeuvre. Through the museum’s efforts, high-quality fine art prints of the drawing are available, furthering the appreciation of this significant contribution to modern art history and ensuring that the work is accessible for educational and research purposes in the public domain.
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