Table setting, Flora Danica

Work on the porcelain masterpiece lasted for many years, since the main painting work was performed by a single master. He worked tirelessly for 12 years, copying plants directly from the atlas, since they had to be depicted in full size, as accurately as possible and without repetitions. The artist decorated a teacup with tiny violets, and a large dish with tall foxgloves. The master paid equal attention to luxurious flowers and modest mosses, mushrooms and ferns, demonstrating a truly scientific, unbiased approach to business. It is said that many of his apprentices lost their sight while performing such delicate and painstaking work by candlelight and torch. The result is a service for 100 people, consisting of 1802 items.

Continued in the next puzzle ...