MoMA Exclusive: An exceedingly rare and spectacular tulip—the Semper Augustus— is captured at the height of its bloom in acrylic and resin to form a permanent object of beauty. This particular type of tulip is characterized by petals with streaks of colors running across a paler background. The Semper Augustus is so scarce, it was once believed, in the 19th-century that only 12 bulbs existed in the world.
Electron microscope research in the 20th century, however, revealed that the flower’s unique appearance was caused by a tulip-specific mosaic virus. Today, the Semper Augustus is strictly controlled and disposed of—except, of course, the ones that have been captured in acrylic for these objets. The Rare Tulip Objet d’Art is the work of artist and cinematographer Takao Inoue. It’s made in Japan and measures 5.5h x 2.75w x 2.75”d.
