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Dyers lichen or orchall, Roccella tinctoria
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Dyers lichen or orchall, Roccella tinctoria
Dyers lichen or orchall, Roccella tinctoria (Lichen roccella). Handcoloured copperplate engraving by James Sowerby from James Smiths English Botany, London, 1794
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Media ID 23202740
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Dyers Herb Herbal Lichen Sowerby Tinctoria Smith
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This stunning handcoloured copperplate engraving showcases the intricate details of Roccella tinctoria, also known as Dyers Lichen or Orchall. The image, created by renowned English botanist and artist James Sowerby for James Smith's English Botany, published in London in 1794, offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty and complexity of this unique organism. Roccella tinctoria, a type of follicular lichen, is characterized by its bright orange-red coloration. It thrives in coastal areas, particularly in the Mediterranean region, and is often found growing on rocks and walls. The lichen derives its vibrant hue from the presence of the pigment roccetin, which was historically used for dyeing textiles and leather. The botanical illustration reveals the lichen's intricate structure, with its lobed thallus, or body, and the presence of small, cup-like apothecia, or reproductive structures, scattered throughout. The delicate details of the lichen's surface are expertly captured in the engraving, revealing the tiny, branching structures known as isidia, which help the lichen adhere to its substrate. The inclusion of this lichen in James Smith's English Botany reflects the growing interest in natural history during the late 18th century, as well as the importance of botanical illustrations in documenting and understanding the natural world. The meticulous attention to detail in this handcoloured copperplate engraving serves as a testament to the artistic and scientific achievements of the time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past and the wonders of the natural world.
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