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Field of Chumbera Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) at Las Palmas
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Field of Chumbera Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) at Las Palmas
Field of Chumbera Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) at Las Palmas, Cran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain. Insects are gathered off of the cactus they grow up in, and are then used for the extraction of the natural dye carminic acid (cochineal). The rags draped over the Cacti (seen here) are part of this process. Truly rags to riches...!! Date: circa 1920s
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Media ID 18072609
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Acid Cactus Canaria Canary Cochineal Palmas Pear Prickly Nopal
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This evocative photograph captures the scenic beauty and rich history of the Chumbera Nopal Cactus (Prickly Pear) field at Las Palmas, located on the idyllic Canary Islands of Spain. Dating back to the 1920s, this image transports us back in time to an era when nature's bounty was harnessed in a simple yet profound way. The Chumbera Nopal Cactus, with its distinctive prickly pear-shaped fruit, is not only a natural wonder but also a valuable source of natural dye. In this photograph, we see the intricate process of extracting carminic acid, also known as cochineal, from the insects that thrive on the cactus. The rags draped over the cacti are part of this process, used to collect the insects and facilitate the dye extraction. The Chumbera Nopal Cactus and its associated industry represent a true rags-to-riches story. The humble cactus, once considered an unwanted intruder in agricultural lands, has become a valuable resource, providing a natural dye that has been used for centuries. The deep red hue of carminic acid has been prized for its use in various industries, from food and beverage to cosmetics and textiles. This photograph is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people of Las Palmas, who have harnessed the power of nature to create value from the most unexpected of sources. The scene is one of tranquility and harmony, with the cactus field stretching out before us, dotted with the rags and the industrious insects that bring about this natural transformation.
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