Narcissi, lithographed by Day & Haghe (1834–1852), with watercolour added. From the Ruskin Collection, presented by Ruskin to the Ruskin Drawing School in 1875. Accession no. http://WA.RS .RUD.227. Courtesy of @AshmoleanMuseum #BotanicalArt #RuskinCollection #Spring John Ruskin’s involvement with the *Narcissi* print sits in the wider story of how he built his teaching collection for the Ruskin Drawing School at Oxford. The Ashmolean record shows that this print was **presented by Ruskin to the Ruskin Drawing School in 1875**, and later transferred to the Ashmolean around 1949. Ruskin assembled a large collection of prints, drawings, and natural specimens to teach students how to observe nature with accuracy and sensitivity. Botanical prints like this one—clear, detailed, and scientifically grounded—fit perfectly with his educational aims. He believed that careful study of plants trained the eye and cultivated moral attention. Ruskin chose works that demonstrated high standards of craftsmanship. Day & Haghe were among the most respected lithographers of their time, appointed “Lithographers to the Queen,” and known for technical excellence. Including their work in his collection reflected Ruskin’s emphasis on precision and beauty in instructional materials. By donating this print in 1875, Ruskin ensured that students had access to a broad visual library. The *Narcissi* plate became part of the pedagogical toolkit he curated—objects students could study, copy, and learn from. Why this print mattered in Ruskin’s teaching philosophy? - It exemplified **close observation of nature**, a cornerstone of Ruskin’s artistic and moral teaching. - It represented **high-quality reproductive printmaking**, which he valued for its ability to disseminate good art widely. - It connected students to **botanical knowledge**, which Ruskin saw as essential to understanding the natural world.
Narcissi
Lithographed by Day & Haghe (1834–1852), with watercolour added.
From the Ruskin Collection, presented by Ruskin to the Ruskin Drawing School in 1875.
Accession no. http://WA.RS.RUD.227
Courtesy of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
#BotanicalArt #RuskinCollection #Spring #JohnRuskin