Original Botanical Watercolor of Malus with German Poem Verso

A lovely original botanical watercolor study labeled “Malus” on the lower left, presented unframed in a white mat. The front features delicate apple or crabapple branches with pink blossoms, green leaves, and small red fruit, painted with a light, charming hand.

The reverse makes this piece especially sweet: it bears a handwritten German poem excerpt by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer, titled “Genug ist nicht genug” — translating to “Enough is not enough.” The poem celebrates autumn abundance, fruit-laden branches, peaches, grapes, and the idea that beauty and pleasure can overflow beyond what is merely necessary. It gives the botanical a beautiful layered story: fruit, bloom, abundance, and poetry all in one piece.

The combination of original watercolor, botanical subject, and handwritten literary verso makes this feel more personal than a standard floral study. Beautiful for a kitchen, breakfast room, garden room, bedroom, nursery, or layered with other botanicals.

Condition: Good vintage condition with light age-related toning and minor surface wear. Presented unframed in a white mat. Backside includes handwritten poem and decorative initial. Mat shows light wear consistent with age.

Estimated age: likely mid to late 20th century.

Translation of verso: 

Enough is not enough!
Praised be autumn!
No branch is without its fruit.
Many a branch bends deeply, overburdened with abundance;
the apple falls to earth with a dull sound.

Enough is not enough!
It laughs among the leaves!
The juicy peach beckons to the thirsty mouth.
The drunken wasps hum all around:
“Enough is not enough!” around a cluster of grapes.

Enough is not enough!
With full draughts, the poet’s spirit drinks
from the fountain of pleasure.
The heart, too, needs abundance;
enough can never, ever be enough.

Signed/credited: Conrad Ferdinand Meyer

Dimensions: 12.25 x 16