Plants in Art History: Silent Messengers

by Clarisse :)

In the history of art, plants are not mere decorative elements; they are silent messengers, carrying symbols, beliefs, and emotions. From medieval painting to contemporary installations, flowers and plants have always spoken through forms, colors, and contexts. At Dirty Roots Berlin, where every plant tells a story, it's fascinating to see how these ancient symbols still resonate in our modern interiors.

Flowers in Painting: A Coded Language

Since the Middle Ages, artists have used plants to convey subtle messages. In religious paintings, for instance, certain flowers are associated with sacred figures:

The white lily, a symbol of purity, is often linked to the Virgin Mary.

The red rose evokes divine love and the Passion of Christ.

Flemish painters, such as Jan van Eyck, incorporated Marian gardens filled with flowers like lily of the valley, violet, or columbine into their works, each carrying a specific meaning.

In the 17th century, still lifes used flowers to recall the fleeting nature of life. Lavish bouquets, often composed of flowers from different seasons, symbolized ephemeral beauty and human mortality.

Political and Social Symbols

Flowers have also served as symbols in political and social contexts. For example, the red carnation became an emblem of the workers' movement in France, worn during Labor Day. In Portugal, the Carnation Revolution of 1974 saw protesters use this flower as a symbol of peaceful resistance.

Similarly, the red rose has been adopted by many European socialist parties, representing hope and solidarity.

Plants as Personal Messengers at Dirty Roots

At Dirty Roots Berlin, each plant is carefully chosen, not only for its beauty but also for the message it conveys. A fern, for instance, can symbolize sincerity and discretion, while a bamboo evokes resilience and flexibility.

By integrating these plants into our living spaces, we create environments that reflect our values and emotions. A plant is not just a decorative object; it is a silent companion that shares our daily lives and tells a part of our story.

Dirty Roots

The language of flowers and plants is a rich and fascinating heritage that continues to inspire us. By understanding the hidden symbols behind each species, we can enrich our relationship with nature and give more meaning to our environment. At Dirty Roots, we believe that every plant has a story to tell, and we are here to help you find the one that resonates with yours.