Calligraphy by Chipka
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Description
In ancient Egypt, black was seen as the color of purity. I didn’t exactly think of this when I saw this plant. I think of ancient Egypt quite a lot, but usually not in the presence of decorative foliage in downtown Chicago. I’m accustomed to odd plants in Chicago, but I was exceptionally amazed to spot something with black leaves. I wasn’t specifically drawn to the leaves, however. I was attracted, instead, by the fruit—berries of some sort. I suspect that these berries were ripe at the time I captured this photo. Other plants (of the same, black-leaf species) wore clusters of garish, red fruits—much like Christmas season baubles, worn on the earlobes or wrists of brassy, suburban housewives. Summer’s last flourish hung in the air, as I took this photo: Christmas was months away, but fellow Renderosity Ninjas were close by. I suspect some of them might also have captured this odd bit of Chicago foliage.
I have not yet identified this plant. I don’t know if these berries are toxic. Probably not, as they seem to bear the elegant, calligraphic signature of something with an appetite. Burrowing worms, perhaps…a fungus…or simply, age. I don’t know. It doesn’t matter, really, as the point of this photo is the photo itself…a plant with black leaves and dark berries, inscribed with an odd, natural calligraphy.
I’d write more—as I’m sure there’s more to say—but I’m still pressed for time and so lengthy bits of prose must wait for later. As always, however, thank you for viewing, reading, and commenting, and I hope you’re all having a great week.
Comments (19)
kgb224
Outstanding capture my friend. God Bless.
Faemike55
Very cool capture interesting plant
durleybeachbum
Beautiful pic and most interesting scribbles both on the plant and the page!
charpix
This is a fascinating plant. I am more intrigued by the reflections and shine of the dark parts, rather than the squiggly lines themselves. We are fascinated by the archaeology of Egypt. Those of us in the "modern" world do not realize that the ancients were ahead of us in many things. We should give them more credit for their knowledge of science, astronomy, architecture, and math. I read all of your prose, whether or not I mention that.
flavia49
wonderful
sandra46
stunning creation Chip
Feliciti
really cool and unique !! never seen before such berries !!like the dark shiny skin!!
auntietk
I have spared no expense, my friend, and have discovered the identity of your beautiful plant. It's an ornamental Black Pearl Pepper plant. You can eat the fruit, which is actually a hot pepper, but you probably don't want to. Whatever was nibbling on those probably ran off (flew off, staggered off) to drink the lake dry! LOL! A gorgeous photograph ... and no, I never saw them! :P
wysiwig
Perhaps the wood lice have left you a message? Unusual pure black leaves. I see Tara has id'd it. Very cool closeup.
fallen21
Awesome capture!
MrsRatbag
Well found, Chip; and of course you would notice the writing on the fruits, perhaps the love messages of another species left to be found by the intended recipient--if they find it the love is meant to be, if not then best to forget about them. Or not. Beautiful plant and fruits!
helanker
It is not always easy to photograph so black and dark things like this. I think you did a very fine job doing that. Dont know what it is, but it looks mighty beautiful to me. With or without calligraphy :D
bmac62
These plants, leaves, fruit have a way of catching the eye and imagination...that is your eye and your imagination because I obviously was off staring at something completely different. Well done...photo and words...just like you do:)
kwami
nice shot xxx
dragonmuse
Really interesting and lovely capture.
RodS Online Now!
Insect glyphs, perhaps, or graffiti by a very small alien.... Nice, clear, and colorful macro, Chip. I like it!
minos_6
What I especially like here is the overall darkness of the image, contrasted with the infusion of light on what is evidently a sunny day. The markings on the berries are intriguing, and I like how you allude to calligraphy. Possibly a message left to be read by others, or a natural calligraphy created by this obscure plant perhaps. Could this possibly be a Nemaean plant?
praep
I think maybe some kind of scarab are the writer of this carvings?! Great shot.
danapommet
Can't help in IDing the plant but I sure do like the photo and the berries. Maybe a new form of wood lice are trying to communicate with you. Lets hope.