Herbarium 1483 - 1484

This book, *Herbarium*, was created around the 4th century by Pseudo-Apuleius Platonicus. It's a window into the relationship between the natural world and the human body. The image here depicts a plantain, rendered in a style that blends observation with symbolic representation, accompanied by a scorpion. The text is more than just a description; it's a practical guide connecting plants to the relief of ailments from head pain to snake bites. Think about who had access to this knowledge at the time, and how class and gender shaped the ability to heal. It's fascinating to consider how *Herbarium* blurs the boundaries between science, spirituality, and daily life. The emotional weight of this image lies in its intimacy. It invites us to consider our vulnerability, our mortality, and our reliance on nature for survival, reflecting an enduring quest for health and well-being.