Delirious
24”x24”, oil on canvas
Helleborus niger, also known as Christmas Rose or Lenten Rose. These plants are noted for their early blooming and toxicity. In the early days of medicine, Hellebores were used to cure insanity.
They symbolize magic, madness and delirium.
In mythology, the ancient seer Melampus used Hellebore to cure the daughters of the king of Argos after the god Dionysos punished them with madness for scorning his worship.
© Eva-Maria Ruhl, 2011
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Dance of the Reeds
Triptych: 10” x 30” each, oil on canvas
The cattail reed symbolizes humility. In Greek mythology, the nymph Syrinx, known for her chastity, was pursued by the amorous Greek god Pan. She ran to the river, where the river nymphs transformed her into hollow water reeds that made a haunting sound when Pan blew his frustrated breath across them. Pan cut the reeds to fashion his pan pipes or “syrinx.” Pre-Raphaelite artist, Arthur Hacker’s Syrinx inspired this painting.
© Eva-Maria Ruhl, 2011
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Fleur-de-lis
Triptych: 9” x 21” each, watercolor on paper
The iris symbolizes faith, wisdom, hope, valor, promise in love, and is frequently associated with the Virgin Mary. It was commonly found in Mary gardens, which were dedicated to the Virgin. Its three upright petals represent the Holy Trinity. In heraldry, the iris is known as the fleur-de-lis and is the national symbol of France.
© Eva-Maria Ruhl
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Winter Jewel
6" x 6", oil on 2" deep board
Helleborus niger
© Eva-Maria Ruhl, 2011
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