Pavots (Poppies), pl. 1

Plate, part of a collection of 30 pochoir pattern plates, originally part of a book titled "Les fleurs et leurs applications décoratives" (Flowers and their decorative applications), created by Émile-Allain Séguy and published in Paris by A. Calavas, as part of the collection "Librairie des Arts Decoratifs" (Library of Decorative Arts) in 1902. The plate features a naturalistic illustration with a long, thin stem, flanked above by a large, naturalistic poppy with yellow petals and blue, green, and orange stamens, surrounded by scrolling leaves, and two thin, undulating branches flanked by two flower buds, colored with shades of green and with white highlights. On the lower right of the sheet are two additional views of the flower: one from above, and a side dissection, showing the inner part of the flower and revealing the shape of the green pistils. The detailed, naturalistic depiction of this illustration reveals Séguy's unique interest in the scientific study of the creations of nature, including flowers, butterflies, and insects, as a source of inspiration for artistic creation. This illustration was likely meant to inspire designs for textiles and wallpapers.