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Half height banner for Maria Merian exhibition, showing a butterfly
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MARIA SIBYLLA MERIAN (1647-1717)

Ripe Pineapple with Dido Longwing Butterfly

1702-03

RCIN 921154

Merian depicts the metamorphosis of the elegant Dido Longwing (Philaethria dido) on a ripe pineapple, which she described as having an ‘unsurpassable flavour’. Although she had undoubtedly seen pineapples in Europe, this was the first time she had tasted one, and she warned her readers that the hairs on the fruit could make eating it a painful experience.

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.