Time for a confession: this isn't my favorite painting of all time. I didn't capture the roundness of thistles well. I loved the backlighting but didn't get that secondary detailing of their volume. Ah well- that's how we learn.
Cynar is a strange, horrible tasting Italian disgestivo. I liken it to drinking sweetened gasoline. It's made from the beloved artichoke. Next time you visit a true Italian restaurant ask for one after your meal. You won't believe how awful it is (but your tummy will be well-settled).