Pineapple (Ananas comosus) c. early 19th century

This watercolor image of pineapples was made by an anonymous artist. Its existence speaks to the history of the pineapple as a global commodity. Originally from South America, by the time this work was made, pineapples had become a symbol of luxury and colonial trade. They were introduced to Europe and then spread through colonial networks, transforming from an exotic fruit into a widely cultivated crop. This image reflects how botanical art often served colonial interests, documenting and categorizing resources from colonized lands. The act of depicting the pineapple, without acknowledging its origins or the labor involved in its cultivation and distribution, highlights the power dynamics inherent in colonial encounters. Consider how the simple act of painting a fruit can be deeply embedded in histories of trade, exploitation, and cultural exchange. It invites us to reflect on what and whose stories are told through images.