The exhibition “Reconnaissance of the Lip-flowered Plants” explores the recognisability of the lip as a symbol of origin, power and beauty. From the ‘Habsburg lip’ as a courtly feature, the trail leads into the present day – to the invasive lip booster, the digital standardisation of faces and the longing for individuality in a world of standardised beauty. As with the flowers of the Lamiaceae, whose distinctive lower lip serves as a landing strip for insects, a play of seduction, mimicry and function unfolds.
Between genetics and performance, portraiture and selfie culture, a space of recognition emerges in which family resemblance, digital facial recognition and self-presentation intertwine: between Rudolf and Rosemary, Karl and Sage, Margarethe and Lemon Balm.

Eva Schwab’s installation combines wall hangings, ceramics and encaustic painting into a multisensory, interactive performance. Ulrich Krauss’s ‘Gelockte Knödel’ menu complements the sensory experience: a culinary allegory that combines Habsburg recipes with Lamiaceae flavours, a multisensory exploration of the Lippe region at the intersection of art, cuisine and culture.

To the exhibition we serve the menu
CURLY DUMPLINGS
and the imperial cuisine of the Habsburgs
Basil – Thyme – Rosemary – Oregano – Sage – Mint – Lavender – Marjoram
Beef soup and pancakes with Lamiaceae
Vegetarian: Vegetable consommé with pancakes
2023 Domaine Arsac Viognier Les Amandiers
Steamed salmon trout with pink asparagus and lavender sauce
Vegetarian: Beetroot with walnut oil, pink asparagus and lavender sauce
2021 “Ninte de Ninte” Bianchetta Genovese, Liguria, biodynamic
Guinea fowl Halbthurn-style
with saffron, ginger, cumin, coriander and cinnamon
Dumpling filling with Lamiaceae and Duchesse potatoes
Vegetarian: Blanc Manger with baked celery and almond sauce
2020 Rasteau, Domaine de Verquière, Rhône
Strawberry and champagne soup
with pineapple and vanilla parfait