Belladonna Collection
"Belladonna: The Deadly Beauty of Poisonous Plants" Step into the mysterious world of belladonna
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"Belladonna: The Deadly Beauty of Poisonous Plants" Step into the mysterious world of belladonna, a captivating and treacherous plant that has fascinated botanists and artists alike for centuries. This lithograph from 1895 showcases the allure of poison plants, with its intricate details capturing the essence of danger and beauty. Atropa Belladonna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is at the center of attention in this collection. Its dark purple flowers exude an enchanting charm while concealing its lethal nature. Picture No. 10752424 transports us to a time when hand-colored prints by Mary Ann Burnett in 1842 brought these plants to life on paper. Venturing deeper into the realm of poisonous flora, we encounter black nightshade and bittersweet alongside deadly nightshade itself. These dangerous companions remind us that not all botanical wonders are meant for admiration alone; caution must be exercised around them. In Quarry Hangers (SWT), Chaldon, Surrey lies a habitat where deadly nightshade thrives amidst rocky terrains—a testament to its resilience despite being shunned by many due to its toxicity. It stands tall among other poisonous plants like Solanum nigrum (black or common nightshade) and Solanum dulcamara (woody nightshade). Etienne Delaune's depiction of Bellona adds another layer to our understanding of belladonna's significance throughout history. Symbolizing war and destruction, this ancient Roman goddess embodies both power and peril—an apt representation for such a potent plant. Even in modern times, belladonna continues to leave an indelible mark on agriculture practices worldwide. A monochrome photograph captures English farmers weighing and loading their precious harvest—a reminder that behind every seemingly innocent flower lies potential danger if mishandled. Belladonna remains an enigma—its allure drawing us closer while simultaneously warning us against getting too close.