How did Gothic sculptors study plants for column-capital decorations?

During the 13th century, Gothic sculptors engaged in a period of intense experimentation that led to a shift toward increased realism in architectural decoration. As part of this broader quest for naturalism, masons began to observe plants more closely, moving beyond stylized or abstract motifs to create remarkably accurate botanical studies.12

This trend resulted in the realistically carved clusters of leaves that adorn the capitals of columns in various Gothic churches, such as Reims Cathedral in France and Southwell Minster in England. These carvings transcend purely decorative functions, representing a sophisticated level of observation that allowed the foliage to become a distinct and plastic form of sculpture.213