Boswellia occulta

 This evocative painting captures the essence of Boswellia occulta—a rare and mysterious frankincense species—with layers of symbolism woven into its composition. At the heart of the piece, an unspoken isomer of guaiol emerges, hinting at the unknown depths of this precious oil. The colours of the Somaliland flag—red, white, and green—intertwine with the landscape, reflecting the region’s arid beauty: a brilliant blue sky, sunbaked red and yellow earth, and the resilient green of the Boswellia tree.

A nod to the rich cultural heritage of the harvesters, an open book takes its place in the scene, symbolizing poetry—one of the most revered art forms of the local people. Five bold slashes cut through the composition, echoing the careful incisions made to release the tree’s sacred resin. The number five itself speaks to revelation—the recent discovery of Boswellia occulta, bringing it into the light after years of obscurity.

This piece is a tribute to both nature and tradition, capturing the journey from secrecy to significance, from tree to treasured oil.