Description
Explore the captivating world of corals with this insightful publication that delves into their multifaceted existence. For centuries, corals have intrigued scientists and artists alike, bridging the realms of biology, geology, and cultural history. This brand new release from Reaktion Books unravels the mysteries of corals, illustrating their pivotal role in marine biodiversity and their symbolic presence in literature, art, and mythology. You will discover the incredible relationship between corals and their environments, highlighting their importance as builders of islands and protectors of coastlines. Realize why these vibrant organisms are often referred to as the 'rainforests of the sea,' and understand the urgent need to preserve their habitats in the face of global climate change. With rich illustrations spanning natural history images and fine art, this book serves as an essential resource for anyone passionate about ocean ecosystems, ecology, and the interplay of culture and nature. The historical significance of coral as a jewelry material and its representation throughout various art forms is celebrated, revealing its enchanting narrative through time. Perfect for marine life enthusiasts or those seeking to enrich their understanding of coral reefs, this striking book offers an enlightening journey into the depths of one of the ocean's most alluring phenomena. Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. 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: 9781780239347
Year: 2018
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Description:
For millennia corals were a marine enigma confounding classification and occupying a space between the animal and vegetable kingdoms. Ultimately their animal and symbiotic natures were recognized, and they remain the focus of intense fascination and research. The danger to seafarers posed by unseen underwater coral reefs led to their association with death and interment that has figured in literature, poetry, music and film. The bright redness of precious Mediterranean coral was associated with blood, including coral's gory origin in European and Indian mythology, and its place in religion. Corals have long been prized as jewellery and ornament, and were a feature of many Kunstkammer collections during the Renaissance. Seen as `rainforests of the sea', coral reefs have become greenly emblematic of fragile marine biodiversity, warning of human-driven global climate change. This book uniquely treats the many manifestations of corals in biology and geology; how diverse corals came to figure in art, expeditionary accounts, medicine, folklore, geopolitics, and international trade; and corals as builders of islands and protectors of coastlines, and as building materials themselves. Exceptionally illustrated with a wide range of natural history images, underwater photographs and fine art, this book provides a unique resource for all interested in ocean environments and the cultures that have flourished there.
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: 9781780239347
Year: 2018
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Description:
For millennia corals were a marine enigma confounding classification and occupying a space between the animal and vegetable kingdoms. Ultimately their animal and symbiotic natures were recognized, and they remain the focus of intense fascination and research. The danger to seafarers posed by unseen underwater coral reefs led to their association with death and interment that has figured in literature, poetry, music and film. The bright redness of precious Mediterranean coral was associated with blood, including coral's gory origin in European and Indian mythology, and its place in religion. Corals have long been prized as jewellery and ornament, and were a feature of many Kunstkammer collections during the Renaissance. Seen as `rainforests of the sea', coral reefs have become greenly emblematic of fragile marine biodiversity, warning of human-driven global climate change. This book uniquely treats the many manifestations of corals in biology and geology; how diverse corals came to figure in art, expeditionary accounts, medicine, folklore, geopolitics, and international trade; and corals as builders of islands and protectors of coastlines, and as building materials themselves. Exceptionally illustrated with a wide range of natural history images, underwater photographs and fine art, this book provides a unique resource for all interested in ocean environments and the cultures that have flourished there.