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  1. Home
  3. Research Domains
  5. Language, Communication And Culture
  7. Literary Studies
  9. Middle Eastern Literature
  11. Fiat Lux: The Mullein's (verbascum Sp.) Image And Its Symbology Through History Within The Euro-mediterranean Culture.
  1. Home
  3. Research Domains
  5. Language, Communication And Culture
  7. Literary Studies
  9. Middle Eastern Literature
  11. Fiat Lux: The Mullein's (verbascum Sp.) Image And Its Symbology Through History Within The Euro-mediterranean Culture.

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FIAT LUX: The Mullein's (Verbascum sp.) Image and Its Symbology Through History Within the Euro-Mediterranean Culture.

Nicolò Soldovieri1, Alessandro Lazzara1, Giulia Albani Rocchetti1,2

  • 1Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.

Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 13, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Mullein (Verbascum) holds significant symbolic meaning in Euro-Mediterranean art, often representing light and spiritual themes. This study analyzes its recurrence and symbolism across various historical periods and artistic contexts.

Keywords:
CaravaggioGreek-Roman archaeologyRenaissancelight symbolism

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Area of Science:

  • Art History
  • Ethnobotany
  • Cultural Studies

Background:

  • Mullein (Verbascum) species possess rich symbolic relevance in historical art, a significance often overlooked in contemporary analysis.
  • Previous investigations into mullein's iconographic importance in Euro-Mediterranean art lack comprehensive scope regarding its value and recurrence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and significance of mullein (Verbascum) in Euro-Mediterranean art.
  • To conduct a wide-ranging analysis of mullein's value and recurrence across different historical periods.

Main Methods:

  • A survey of over 5000 artworks from ancient to modern eras was conducted.
  • Digital museum collections and fieldwork were combined to identify and document depictions of Verbascum.
  • Key morphological traits were used to identify the most frequently depicted species.
phyto-iconology
plant symbolism

Main Results:

  • Approximately one hundred depictions of Verbascum were identified, with 64 reported for the first time.
  • Verbascum thapsus and V. sinuatum were the most frequently depicted species, noted for their basal leaves and inflorescences.
  • In archaeological contexts, Verbascum symbolized Athena/Minerva and new life in funerary settings; it reappeared in the Renaissance associated with Christ and St. John the Baptist.

Conclusions:

  • Mullein's artistic representation evolved from ancient symbolism of light and the afterlife to Renaissance spiritual themes, reflecting changing cultural and natural world perspectives.
  • Verbascum thapsus and V. sinuatum are key species in mullein's artistic legacy.
  • The study highlights the enduring, albeit evolving, symbolic significance of mullein in art history.