The Cherry Blossoms - High Tea c. 1890

Anna Botsford Comstock, a pioneering figure in natural science education, created "The Cherry Blossoms - High Tea" through wood engraving. Comstock's meticulous observation of nature challenges the traditional gender roles of her time, where women's contributions to science were often marginalized. In this print, cherry blossoms serve as a meeting point for butterflies, suggesting themes of transformation and fleeting beauty. The phrase "High Tea" in the title evokes a sense of refinement and leisure, linking nature's beauty to cultural practices. Comstock's work intersects with broader discussions about the relationship between humans and the natural world. How do we see ourselves as part of or separate from the environments that sustain us? As we contemplate Comstock's image, we can reflect on the ways we perceive nature and the power we have to protect it.