Prunus mume Russa
1910
Ellen Isham Schutt painted this delicate study of a 'Russian' fruit in 1910, capturing its blushing red skin and the intricate details of its pit in the cross-section below. These weren't just pretty pictures; they were vital scientific records for the USDA, helping farmers across America identify and cultivate the best fruit varieties. The handwritten notes at the bottom, marking the dates in June, show exactly when she observed the specimen, freezing a fleeting harvest moment in time.
- Technique
- Watercolor