The pineapple — a symbol of wealth and power

In the 1700s the pineapple was seen as a symbol of wealth and power; a single pineapple could cost the equivalent of $8,000 today! Pineapples were discovered by Christopher Columbus on one of his voyages to the Caribbean. When he brought them to Spain, European royalty were the only ones who could afford the fruit as it had to be imported. The pineapple made its way to England, and by the 18th century, being seen with one was an indicator of wealth. Craftsmen adopted the fruit as a motif, sculpting it into gateposts, railings and door lintels. The Dunmore Pineapple in Scotland represents a spectacular architectural use of the motif.