Vegetable hygrometer, 19th century
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Vegetable hygrometer, 19th century
Vegetable hygrometer, 19th-century artwork. Hygrometers are used to measure relative humidity, which can be used to predict the approach of rain. Several types of plant materials absorb moisture from the air, and can be used to form what is called a vegetable hygrometer. This is a French version, labelled with rain ( pluie ) and good weather ( beau temps ). The plants and their appearances when wet (right) and dry (left), are: 1. Carline thistle; 2. Water moss; 3. Pine cone; 4. Erodium seed; 5. Feathered stipe. Artwork from the 13th volume (first period of 1894) of the French popular science weekly La Science Illustree
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Media ID 6339091
© SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1890s 1894 Annual Volume Detection Detector Device Forecast Forecasting France French Humidity Instrument La Science Illustree Louis Figuier Magazine Meteorological Meteorology Popular Science Precipitation Predicting Prediction Rain Rainfall Weather Weekly Carline Thistle Hygrometer Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 19th-century artwork showcases a unique device known as the vegetable hygrometer. Used to measure relative humidity and predict rainfall, this French version is labeled with "rain" (pluie) and "good weather" (beau temps). The hygrometer utilizes various plant materials that absorb moisture from the air, forming an ingenious detection system. The print displays five plants arranged in two columns: on the left side, we see their appearances when dry, while on the right side, they are depicted after absorbing moisture. The first plant is the Carline thistle, followed by water moss, a pine cone, erodium seed, and finally a feathered stipe. Created by Louis Figuier for La Science Illustree's 13th volume in 1894, this artwork beautifully combines scientific illustration with artistic expression. It offers us a glimpse into historical technological advancements in meteorology during the late 1800s. This monochrome piece not only represents an important milestone in weather forecasting but also reflects France's rich scientific heritage. Its inclusion in this popular science weekly magazine demonstrates its significance within European meteorological history. As we observe this remarkable artifact from our past, it serves as a reminder of how humans have always sought ways to understand and predict atmospheric conditions. This vegetable hygrometer print stands as both an educational tool and a testament to human ingenuity throughout centuries of exploration and discovery.
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