Mastic Collection

Thessaloniki - Preparing the Aperitif Mastic and Mezza. In medieval times, mastic was highly valued by sultans harems as a breath freshener and a tooth whitener

Putty or lentisk, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Weddell from Samuel Curtis Botanical
FLO4608930 Putty or lentisk, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Weddell from Samuel Curtis Botanical Magazine, London, 1818.; (add.info.: Putty or lentisk, Pistacia lentiscus)

Mastic, Pistacia lentiscus
5855106 Mastic, Pistacia lentiscus; (add.info.: Mastic, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured botanical illustration drawn by G)

Putty, Pistacia lentiscus. Chromolithograph after a botanical illustration from Hermann Adolph Koehler's Medicinal
FLO4995379 Putty, Pistacia lentiscus. Chromolithograph after a botanical illustration from Hermann Adolph Koehler's Medicinal Plants, edited by Gustav Pabst, Koehler, Germany

Mastic, Pistacia lentiscus. Chromolithograph after a botanical illustration from Hermann Adolph Koehlers Medicinal Plants, edited by Gustav Pabst, Koehler, Germany, 1887

Mastic or lentisk, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Weddell from Samuel Curtis Botanical Magazine, London, 1818

American sweetgum and mastic tree
American sweetgum tree, Liquidambar styraciflua 1, and mastic tree, Pistacia lentiscus 2. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuchs Bilderbuch fur Kinder

Mastic tree or lentisk, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured lithograph by Hanhart after a botanical illustration by David Blair from Robert Bentley and Henry Trimens Medicinal Plants, London, 1880

Mastic tree, Pistacia lentiscus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from Dr. Willibald Artus Hand-Atlas sammtlicher mediinisch-pharmaceutischer Gewachse

The Eastern Question (engraving)
1059409 The Eastern Question (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Eastern Question)

Pistacia lentiscus (mastic)
Illustration of a Pistacia lentiscus (mastic)

Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. chia). This plant is the source of mastic resin, a commonly used spice in the Mediterranean

Mastic Tree (Pistacia lentiscus) plant with flower, leaf and drupe, illustration Biology: Botany, Plants

Stylish young ladies talking to each other
Two young stylish ladies wearing the following outfits: A Jenner brushed-wool tomato sports coat, ornamented (accessorised) with shaded blue embroidery (left)

Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, built 1885, Cuenca, Ecuador, South America
Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, built 1885, Cuenca, Ecuador. Cuenca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Picture No. 10899541
Mastic Trees (Pistacia lentiscus var chia) Date:

Picture No. 10899539
Mastic Trees (Pistacia lentiscus var chia ) Date:

Picture No. 10899540
Ancient Mastic trees (Pistacia lentiscus var chia) Date:

Picture No. 10899531
Mastic Tree Flowers (Pistacia lentiscus var chia) Date:

Mastic resin in small bowl, high angle view

Pistacia lentiscus fruiting, artwork C016 / 3308
Pistacia lentiscus fruiting, artwork

Pistacia Terebinthus
Turpentine Tree, or Mastic Tree, or Lentisc

Mastic Tree
SSG-2542-c Mastic Tree Pistacia lentiscus Ardea London Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in anyway

Pistacia lentiscus var chia - Chios, Greece
ROG-11701 MASTIC - Chios, Greece Pistacia lentiscus var chia Greece A transparent resin, known as mastic, is obtained from the tree. This is collected by bleeding the bark

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In the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, a captivating tradition unfolds as locals prepare the exquisite aperitif known as mastic and mezza. Derived from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, commonly referred to as mastic or lentisk, this unique ingredient holds a rich history and tantalizing flavor. The mastic tree, also called lentisk, is native to Greece and has been cultivated for centuries. Its resinous sap is carefully harvested by making incisions in the bark, allowing it to ooze out and solidify into translucent tears. These precious droplets are then collected and used in various culinary creations. With its distinct aroma reminiscent of pine forests combined with hints of citrusy sweetness, mastic adds an unparalleled depth to both savory dishes and desserts and has become an essential component in Greek cuisine, elevating classics like souvlaki or tzatziki with its subtle yet unforgettable taste. Beyond its gastronomic allure, mastic holds cultural significance too. Historically linked to the Eastern Question – a complex political issue during 19th-century Europe – this versatile ingredient became emblematic of Greek identity and resilience. As stylish young ladies gather around sipping their refreshing mastic-infused beverages while engaging in lively conversation at outdoor cafes in Thessaloniki's bustling streetscape; they unknowingly participate in preserving this ancient tradition. The beauty of the Pistacia lentiscus plant itself is awe-inspiring - adorned with delicate flowers, lush leaves, and small drupes that encapsulate nature's bounty within each tiny fruit. This remarkable illustration captures the essence of this magnificent tree that gifts us with such extraordinary flavors. Just like opening up an antique secretaire reveals hidden treasures within drawers; exploring the world uncovers endless possibilities for culinary exploration. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to innovative creations crafted by visionary chefs worldwide - every bite infused with mastic tells a story steeped in history and culture.