Mourning Iris (Iris Susianna)
Plate No. IV · selected florilegium
Original work → Maria Sibylla Merian, circa 1700
Drawn from the botanical studies of Maria Sibylla Merian (1647–1717) and restored with care, this portrait of the Iris Susiana, known as the "Mourning Iris," offers a rare glimpse into the emotional architecture of early floriculture. With petals veined in charcoal and violet, the species was once favored for ritual plantings and grave adornment across the Eastern Mediterranean.
This archival print preserves the original composition while honoring Merian’s role as a naturalist, observer, and one of the earliest women to publish detailed plant studies under her own name. It is not a flower of grief, but of solemn clarity...structured, intricate, and enduring.
- Museum-grade giclée on natural-toned, acid free 250 gsm paper
- 11 x 14 inches including white border
- Title, species name, and plate number printed in situ
- Produced in limited runs through Archive of Arcane Air
- Please allow 3-5 business for processing
