This watercolor painting depicts beautiful blooming rosemary. The botanical name (Salvia rosemarinus) and common name (Rosemary) are included on the bottom. Color may appear slightly different due to monitor calibrations.
Aside from the culinary benefits, this herb used to be grown in many kitchens and represents the dominance of the lady of the house during the times when women were considered to be lower than men and only there for baby-making. Shakespeare wrote numerous poems with rosemary as the subject and is mentioned in five of his plays. Scholars used to make garlands of the herbs and wear them during exams to boost their memory. Needless to say, this herb was very important to the people of the Mediterranean.
Straying from historical uses, this aromatic herb has an interesting history with magic. Many witches would use it as a healing herb by stuffing poppets with the herb, burning it with juniper berries in a sickroom to promote healthy recoveries, and can be used as a substitute for frankincense in many spells. Hanging bundles by the front door is said to keep negative energy and dangerous people, such as robbers, out. Much like burning sage, burning rosemary also helps to rid negative energy. This herb is associated with the goddess Aphrodite.
Please be aware that this painting will not provide any of the following benefits.