Roberta Bernstein

Purple Shamrock 

Oxalis regnellii atropurpurea


oil on canvas, 18" x 24"

The ancient Celts had many beliefs based on triads and revered the shamrock because of its three leaves. Later the shamrock was used by the Christians to explain the holy trinity and the theological virtues of faith, love and hope. Later it symbolized luck, while its purple color denote wealth.

© Roberta Bernstein, 2011

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Strawberries

Oil on hardboard, 12"X16"

Because strawberries are the first fruit to ripen each spring, they symbolize rebirth and perfect goodness. Roman legends say that when Adonis died, the uncontrollable tears of Venus turned to heart shaped strawberries as they fell to the ground.

© Roberta Bernstein, 2011

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Variegated Parrot Tulip

Watercolor on paper

29"x 19" 

Persian legend says tulips represents pure and passionate love. But the Victorians declared this variegated tulip to specifically convey the compliment, "you have beautiful eyes".

© Roberta Bernstein, 2011

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Gardenia

Watercolor on paper, 18"x 13"

The elegant white Gardenia petals denoted refinement to the Victorians. The flower symbolizes purity and conveys, "you are lovely."

© Roberta Bernstein, 2005

See more of Roberta's work  here.