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  • We acquired this object.

2019

2025

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Model, Ficus Carica, 1875–1898

This is a Model. It is dated 1875–1898. Its medium is wood, papier-mâché, cardboard, plaster, reed pith, metal, string, feathers, gelatin, glass and bone glue beads, cloth, metallic thread, horsehair, hemp, silk threads, paint, and shellac varnish. It is a part of the department.

The Ficus carica, or fig tree, is native to the Mediterranean and Central Asian regions, and it was one of the first plants cultivated by humankind, growing up to 30 feet. A staple in the diet of ancient Greeks and Romans, the fruit is now consumed around the world either raw, dried, or as a jam.

It is credited Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 43.2 × 21.6 × 21.6 cm (17 in. × 8 1/2 in. × 8 1/2 in.)

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Botanical Lessons.

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use page.

If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/2318793580/ |title=Model, Ficus Carica, 1875–1898 |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=10 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>