Cherry
Constance L. Kirker, Mary NewmanRecounts the origins, art, literature and legends of the cherry tree.
Ripe, sensuous, irresistible: the cherry tree and its stunning blossoms conjure up many literal, metaphorical and visceral sensations. We enjoy cherry picking, a cherry on top, and even, on occasion, to lose one’s cherry. Cherries have been consumed since prehistoric times, reaching great popularity among the ancient Romans. They have come to symbolize such divergent concepts as fertility, innocence and seductiveness, inspiring Dutch still-life paintings, Freudian theory, contemporary pop artists and one of the first food emojis. In Japan and other Asian cultures, the short-lived but beautiful cherry blossoms are important elements throughout art and literature.
In this intriguing natural and cultural history, Constance L. Kirker and Mary Newman recount the origins, legends, celebrations, production and health benefits of this beloved tree.
Recounts the origins, art, literature and legends of the cherry tree.
Ripe, sensuous, irresistible: the cherry tree and its stunning blossoms conjure up many literal, metaphorical and visceral sensations. We enjoy cherry picking, a cherry on top, and even, on occasion, to lose one’s cherry. Cherries have been consumed since prehistoric times, reaching great popularity among the ancient Romans. They have come to symbolize such divergent concepts as fertility, innocence and seductiveness, inspiring Dutch still-life paintings, Freudian theory, contemporary pop artists and one of the first food emojis. In Japan and other Asian cultures, the short-lived but beautiful cherry blossoms are important elements throughout art and literature.
In this intriguing natural and cultural history, Constance L. Kirker and Mary Newman recount the origins, legends, celebrations, production and health benefits of this beloved tree.
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A charming read from beginning to end. Beautifully illustrated, it reveals the history, culinary and medicinal uses, symbolic meanings, and artistic representation of the cherry tree . . . The more than 100 color photos and illustrations add a great deal to the book, as does the representation of global cherry recipes. Included in the appendix is a historical timeline of cherry references starting in 5,000 BCE, as well as a list of worldwide cherry-related associations and websites. Kirker and Newman have written a delightful, informative book that explores all the nuances of the beloved cherry tree.
'Digestible Bits and Bites
Introduction
1 History, Cultivation and Consumption
2 Blossoms: Aesthetic of the Ephemeral
3 Fruit: From Tree to Table
4 Wood: Everlasting Beauty
5 Literature, Legends and Lore
6 The Future of Cherries
Recipes
Timeline
References
Select Bibliography
Associations and Websites
Websites and Associations
Acknowledgements
Photo Acknowledgements
Index
Constance L. Kirker (Author)
Constance L. Kirker is a retired Pennsylvania State University professor of art history. An avid gardener and foodie, she is also co-author of Edible Flowers (‘Edible’ series) and Cherry (‘Botanical’ series), both published by Reaktion Books.
Mary Newman (Author)
Mary Newman has taught environmental health at Ohio University and the University of Malta. She is co-author of Edible Flowers (‘Edible’ series) and Cherry (‘Botanical’ series), both published by Reaktion Books.
