You may be aware by now that are my favourite flower. As Spring unfurls, my garden becomes awash with gorgeous parrot tulips, transforming into a riot of colour. So much so, that I decided to embark on a pilgrimage of sorts to Holland to visit the magnificent tulip fields. Needless to say in true British style, I brought the weather with me in the form of driving rain and very strong winds, we cycled on regardless!
What fascinates me most is the intricate streaked markings that many parrot tulips have, the extraordinary result of a harmless virus, which also causes the ruffled edges in other varieties. Among the array of tulip varieties, the parrot tulips stand out with their flamboyant petals resembling tropical birds' plumes.
Dating back to the 16th Century in the Ottoman Empire, tulips were introduced to Europe and quickly captivated hearts, particularly among the Dutch middle class. In a fascinating twist of history, tulip bulbs became an unexpected status symbol, comparable to with records from 1637 documenting trades where single bulbs exchanged hands for entire houses in the heart of Amsterdam.
Throughout history, artists and designers have found themselves drawn to tulips' enchanting beauty, with renowned painters such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet having immortalised these blooms on canvas. It comes as no surprise then that these blooms have inspired a whole collection, their gorgeous tonal colours and delicate forms encapsulated in hand-carved gemstones, and in my latest iteration, pavé so that we can enjoy them all year round!
