Rachel Ruysch in 5 Paintings

1. Roses, Convolvulus, Poppies, and Other Flowers in an Urn on a Stone Ledge (ca. 1680s)

This striking still-life painting is a celebration of color, texture, and form in the wild profusion of flowers. Ruysch’s extraordinary commitment to detail is most obviously represented by the delicate grains of pollen nestled within open petals. The composition’s pyramid-like shape catches the eye, brought to life by its uneven balance and the flowing curves of wild stems.

Though this painting features elements common in 17th-century Dutch vanitas art, it is believed that Ruysch did not have it the genre specifically in mind. Unlike true vanitas works—marked by symbols like extinguished candles or rotting fruit to emphasize life’s fleeting nature—Ruysch’s wilting leaves and resting insects appear to simply reflect the natural cycle of life, rather than a warning of death.

2. Flowers in a Vase (ca. 1685)

Rachel Ruysch’s bouquet gently signals the change of seasons. Though it includes early bloomers like pear blossoms and peonies, the warm orange lilies, dry leaves, seed pods, and ripe wheat suggest autumn is near. Soft light moves over the pale flowers, making them shine. Higher up, her light brushstrokes make the dusky blue columbine seem to float in the dark background. The peony’s green center feels like it’s anchoring the flower, stopping it from drifting away.

3. Still Life with Flowers on a Marble Tabletop (1716)

Ruysch’s remarkable talent, which made her one of the most successful flower painters of her time, was also prompted by her father’s work. Namely, he was as the keeper of Amsterdam’s botanical garden. This gave her direct access to everything she painted—from rare flowers to the tiny ants, grasshoppers, and caterpillars that came with them.

4. Flower Still Life (ca. 1716–1720)

Set against a dark background, Rachel Ruysch’s floral arrangement follows the popular style of late 17th-century flower painting. The bouquet brings together blooms that would never appear together in nature. On closer look, tiny caterpillars crawl along stems, and browning leaves are marked by insect bites—small but striking details that hint at the delicate, fleeting nature of life and beauty.

5. Still Life of Exotic Flowers on a Marble Ledge (ca. 1735)

This still life shows a rich, colorful mix of exotic flowers arranged in a stoneware vase on a marble ledge. The bouquet has a diagonal shape formed by the tall white bloom that rises from the center and angles to the right. The painting is filled with many elaborate details, such as the pale yellow butterfly that hovers near a star-shaped carrion flower. The bouquet also includes a pink and white oleander, a vivid cluster of coral honeysuckle, and a prickly pear cactus resting at the base. Even more so, in the background, the viewer discerns a garden and a classical statue on the right.

Hopefully, these beautiful still-life paintings have shown that Ruysch’s work is far more than still—it radiates vitality and subtly conveys powerful stories. If these works sparked your interest, we invite you to check out the video below in order to learn more about this amazing artist.