The Flower of Eden (Magnolia)

It is theorized that the magnolia flowers appeared before bees did and evolved to encourage pollination by beetles.  Fossilized specimens have been found dating to 20 million years ago, with its family extending up to  to 95 million years. Thus it’s not surprising that this majestic ancient flower is an important symbol in many cultures. For example, in ancient China magnolias were thought to be the perfect symbols of womanly beauty and gentleness, and is is the official flower of the Chinese metropolis Shanghai. It is also associated with the Southern United States, the city of Houston being called the ”Magnolia City”.

P.S. The most gorgeous it would look on a very large canvas – commissions are welcome >