Description
Explore the fascinating world of palms with 'Palm', an exceptional book that delves into the cultural and historical significance of this iconic plant. Authored by Fred Gray, this brilliantly illustrated volume reveals the diverse, prolific, and often essential role palms have played throughout human history. From their symbolism in ancient civilizations to their exploitation in contemporary society, the book explores how palms have become synonymous with leisure, spirituality, and even controversy. Discover how these extraordinary botanicals produce the world's biggest seeds and longest leaves, and learn about their impact on rainforest communities. Perfect for botany enthusiasts and those interested in tropical ecosystems, 'Palm' is a must-have addition to any bookshelf. It addresses critical conversations about consumerism and environmental concerns, especially regarding rainforest destruction caused by palm oil production. With its captivating narrative and impressive visuals, this book serves as a vital resource for understanding the profound connection between humans and this significant plant. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9781780239170. Year: 2018. Publisher: Reaktion Books. Shipping for this item is free, with delivery expected within 6 weeks. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781780239170
Year: 2018
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Description:
The extraordinary palm: diverse, prolific, essential, symbolic and often sacred, exotic - and at times erotic - exploited and controversial. The signature plant of the tropics and subtropics, these record-breaking botanicals produce the world's biggest and heaviest seed, the longest leaf and the longest stem. Over thousands of years, palms sustained rainforest communities and were bound up with the development of ancient civilizations. They gained mystical and religious meanings and became a plant of abstractions and fantasies, a symbol of being at leisure, away from civilization and closer to nature - and at times of danger and devastation. In the nineteenth century capitalism used palm products to lubricate industry and cleanse empires. Iconic palm houses put on show this exceptional vegetative performer. Far from its natural homelands, it nowadays clothes and glamorizes an astonishing diversity of landscapes. Today oils from palms are consumed daily by millions of people worldwide. The plant is embedded in modern consumer societies, but mired in environmental controversy over the destruction of rainforests. In Palm Fred Gray portrays the cultural and historical significance of this iconic and controversial plant over thousands of years. Superbly illustrated, this lively and engaging book is the first of its kind.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781780239170
Year: 2018
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Description:
The extraordinary palm: diverse, prolific, essential, symbolic and often sacred, exotic - and at times erotic - exploited and controversial. The signature plant of the tropics and subtropics, these record-breaking botanicals produce the world's biggest and heaviest seed, the longest leaf and the longest stem. Over thousands of years, palms sustained rainforest communities and were bound up with the development of ancient civilizations. They gained mystical and religious meanings and became a plant of abstractions and fantasies, a symbol of being at leisure, away from civilization and closer to nature - and at times of danger and devastation. In the nineteenth century capitalism used palm products to lubricate industry and cleanse empires. Iconic palm houses put on show this exceptional vegetative performer. Far from its natural homelands, it nowadays clothes and glamorizes an astonishing diversity of landscapes. Today oils from palms are consumed daily by millions of people worldwide. The plant is embedded in modern consumer societies, but mired in environmental controversy over the destruction of rainforests. In Palm Fred Gray portrays the cultural and historical significance of this iconic and controversial plant over thousands of years. Superbly illustrated, this lively and engaging book is the first of its kind.