It is a busy week- a lot of exciting new contacts and experiences..and I finally get something out of my constant organizing for the video..
I received special permission to loan out a turn-of-the-century monoscope (a microscope with only one eye piece, as was common back then- today there is two lenses for both eyes), as this is usually limited to public or state organisations, but not intended for any private persons or ventures.
Now the (almost retired) head of the department, Professorin Kletter, gave me a private tour of their museum (pharmacognosy is the science dealing with (the historical development of) pharmaceutics), sporting an exhibition of mainly 17th to 19th century medical/pharmaceutical plants, substances from animal origin, and the remains of three imperial pharmacies from the times of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, as well as surgical equipment and medicines from between the 1900-1950/60s.
It was very interesting. I have a personal interest in traditional chinese medicine, and possibly a slight medical "fetish", since 2/3 of my family are doctors or natural scientists..^^..I virtually "grew up" in hospitals, visiting my father at his study/workplace (without having any specific memories about that)..My favourite museum (also quite small!) is the Old Herb Garrett and Operating Theatre in London..they're even on my fb. I LOVE this place! I wanna shoot a video/some photos there sometime..though it is quite a gory place and would rather be suited for Marilyn Manson or the likes. :)
On my way to the Dept., I passed through the Biology and Geology building of Vienna university, and shot the above beautiful photo..another one of my obsessions: butterflies. I always feel sad seeing them pinned, but they are so exquisitely beautiful..^^..
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