Tulips in a Vase

Hans Boulenger (ca. 1600–nach 1645), Tulpen in einer Vase, Öl auf Holz, 68 cm x 54,5 cm, 1639; Bildquelle: © Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

Boulenger's still life does not depict an actual flower arrangement – roses and tulips were not available at the same time of the year. Moreover, even in the Golden Age, few Dutchmen were wealthy enough to buy so many tulips. Boulenger's painting therefore depicts an almost fabled luxury that defies the limits of wealth and nature.

Hans Boulenger (ca. 1600–after 1645), Tulips in a Vase, oil on panel, 68 cm x 54,5 cm, 1639; source: Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/collection/SK-A-799, public domain.