John Barrie Rennie Canadian, 1900-1979

Cardinal Flowers, created in 1937 by artist John Barrie Rennie, features a vibrant and detailed depiction of cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis), known for their striking red blooms, set against a dark, wooded background.

In the foreground, there are various plants with a rich assortment of greens and a vivid blue dragonfly perched delicately on a leaf, adding a sense of life and movement to the scene. The dark background of dense foliage and the shadowy underbrush serve to highlight the red cardinal flowers, which are the focal point of the composition.

Rennie's painting style captures the natural beauty and the contrast between the bright flowers and the subdued tones of the forest. The piece is rich in texture and detail, suggesting a deep familiarity with the woodland flora. The artist's name and the date of the painting are clearly visible, confirming its authenticity and period. The work is illustrative of Rennie's skill in botanical illustration and landscape painting, emphasizing the natural elegance of these wildflowers.