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Cursed buttercup and mezereon
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Cursed buttercup and mezereon
Cursed buttercup, Ranunculus sceleratus 1, and mezereon, Daphne mezereum 2. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuchs Bilderbuch fur Kinder (Picture Book for Children), Weimar, 1798
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Media ID 23157836
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Bertuch Bilderbuch Buttercup Cursed Daphne Educational Encyclopedia Friedrich Johann Kinder Mezereon Mezereum Poison Ranunculus Toxic
EDITORS COMMENTS
This hand-colored copperplate engraving, taken from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's Bilderbuch fur Kinder (Picture Book for Children), published in Weimar in 1798, showcases two intriguing and toxic plants: the cursed buttercup, Ranunculus sceleratus, and the mezereon, Daphne mezereum. The cursed buttercup, also known as the poison buttercup or the false buttercup, is depicted in the foreground. Its vibrant yellow flowers, with their distinctive black centers, lure unsuspecting visitors with their beauty. However, this plant holds a dark secret. All parts of the cursed buttercup are toxic, and contact with its sap can cause blisters and severe skin irritation. In some cases, ingestion can lead to more serious health issues, including heart and respiratory problems. In the background, the mezereon, with its delicate pink flowers and glossy green leaves, adds a touch of elegance to the scene. However, this seemingly harmless plant is also a hidden danger. All parts of the mezereon are poisonous, and ingestion can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can even cause hallucinations and heart failure. This engraving serves as a reminder of the natural world's beauty and the hidden dangers it holds. It is a testament to the educational value of botanical illustrations and their role in natural history. The intricate details of the plants' structures, the vibrant colors, and the careful shading all contribute to a captivating visual experience that continues to fascinate and intrigue viewers even today.
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