The next tulip variety in our series is the “Admirael de Loijer”.
This tulip is beautifully illustrated in ‘The Great Tulip Book’, a collection of exquisite tulip portraits from the 17th century, which is safely preserved in the Norton Simon Art Foundation today.
The term ‘Admirael’ is not used in the military sense in this case, but to emphasize the significant status and importance of the tulip. The addition ‘de Loijer’ is most likely a tribute to the breeder of this beautiful tulip. The name of the breeder, ‘De Loijer’, is still a common Dutch surname. ‘Looijer’ refers to someone who is involved in tanning leather.
It is fascinating to discover how the names of these ancient tulip varieties give us a glimpse into the people and professions of that time, bringing to life the vibrant culture and society of 17th-century Netherlands.
The portrait of “Admirael de Loijer” from the physical collection, serves as the model for the corresponding 99 NFT tulips. The “Admirael de Loijer” NFT tulips are themed ‘leather’, inspired by the craftsmanship required for the trade of a leather tanner.
Ninetynine Tulips 