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MARK CATESBY (1682-1749)

The Umbrella Tree

c.1722-6

RCIN 926012

Catesby shows the cone-like structure which develops once a magnolia flower has shed its petals. The seeds fall but, as Catesby shows, they are suspended by threads and so can be collected by birds. Magnolias were among the most popular American species to be introduced to Europe. The bull bay magnolia (so-called because it was first discovered growing at Bulls Bay, South Carolina) was introduced to England in 1734.


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