Integument Collection

Asclepias curassavica, Tropical milkweed - London, Natural History Museum, Botany Library, Bauer Unit, Unfinished Drawings of plants by Francis Bauer 2: No. 121

Integumentary system, artwork
Integumentary system, computer artwork. The integumentary system comprises the skin, hair and nails. It is the largest organ of the human body

Bauera rubioides - Anonymous copper engraving based on a drawing by Franz Bauer. Annals of Botany 1: t. 10, London, 1805. Date: 1805

Skin section, SEM
Skin section. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a section through human skin. A hair (red) is protruding through the surface

Skin and hair follicles. Artwork taken from Govard Bidloos Anatomia Humani Corporis (Anatomy of the Human Body), published 1685

Lily flower ovary, light micrograph
Lily flower ovary. Light micrograph of a section through an ovule (ovary) from a lily (Lilium sp.) flower, showing the embryo sac (oval, centre left)

Female pine cone seed, light micrograph
Female pine cone seed. Light micrograph of a section through a seed from a female pine (Pinus sp.) cone, showing the mature embryo and endosperm

Female pine cone scale, light micrograph
Female pine cone scale. Light micrograph of a section through a scale from a young ovulate female pine (Pinus sp.) cone, bearing an ovule (upper centre)

Female pine cone scales, light micrograph
Female pine cone scales. Light micrograph of a section through two scales from a young ovulate female Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) cone, bearing ovules (large, oval)

Female pine cone, light micrograph
Female pine cone. Light micrograph of a section through a young ovulate female cone from a Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) tree, showing ovules (oval, light pink)

Female yew tree flower, light micrograph
Female yew tree flower. Light micrograph of a longitudinal section through a female flower of the yew tree (Taxus baccata)

Plant seeds
Seeds. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of seeds. A seed is the product of pollination and is the ripened ovule (egg) of a plant

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Integument: The Hidden Beauty of Nature Step into the enchanting world of integument, where beauty and functionality intertwine seamlessly. From the vibrant Asclepias curassavica, also known as Tropical milkweed, to the captivating Bauera rubioides, each specimen holds its own story within the intricate layers of its integument. In London's Natural History Museum, nestled within the Botany Library, lies a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be discovered. Here, a page from The Pictorial Museum of Animated Nature reveals an engraving that brings these wonders to life. Delicate skin sections captured through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showcase nature's artistry in microscopic detail. Zooming in further reveals a mesmerizing tapestry of skin and hair follicles interwoven like threads on a loom. These microscopic landscapes are reminiscent of lily flower ovaries illuminated under light micrographs - delicate petals unfurling their secrets for those who dare to look closer. As we delve deeper into this hidden realm, female pine cone seeds emerge from obscurity under light micrographs. Their scales become windows into worlds unknown - intricate patterns adorning each scale like miniature works of art. The integument is not merely an outer layer; it is nature's masterpiece – protecting and nurturing life while showcasing breathtaking beauty. It reminds us that even in the smallest details lies immense wonderment waiting to be explored. So let us celebrate this often-overlooked marvel – whether it be the resplendent colors found in Tropical milkweed or the intricacies etched upon Bauera rubioides' surface. Let us embrace our curiosity and venture beyond what meets the eye because within every integument lies a universe yet to be unveiled.