A pastel drawing by Fritz Reiss depicts a potted geranium plant, showcasing its vibrant red flowers and textured leaves against a neutral background. The work combines scientific accuracy with artistic sensibility, reflecting the late 19th-century interest in botanical illustration.

This pastel drawing by Fritz Reiss (1857-1915), a German artist known for his botanical studies and decorative works, presents a potted geranium plant with a focus on its vibrant red flowers and textured leaves. Reiss, who studied at the Karlsruhe Academy, often depicted plants and flowers with a scientific eye, yet infused them with an artistic sensibility. His works often appeared in publications and as decorative panels. The composition is simple and direct, with the geranium centred against a neutral background. The artist uses pastel to capture the soft, velvety texture of the petals and the subtle variations in the green leaves. The terracotta pot provides an earthy contrast to the bright blooms. The drawing style is characterised by delicate lines and a muted palette, creating a sense of quiet observation. The work reflects the late 19th-century interest in botanical illustration, combining scientific accuracy with aesthetic appeal. Reiss's skill in rendering the plant's form and colour makes this a charming and informative study.