ABSTRACT
Starting with an outline of Krzysztof Pomian's theory of semiophores, I propose a definition of them as future-oriented indexical signs, before presenting, in the latter part of the article, an analysis of a specific kind of semiophore, namely natural objects and relicts of the ancient past. I thus focus on the case of the roots of the bald cypress tree, considering both the function of their knees as transmitters of oxygen (pneumatophores) and as objects in collections (semiophores). The investigations presented in this text reveal, on the one hand, the legitimacy of separating off a specific area of knowledge dealing with trees in their biological-cultural aspects from a broader semiotics (let us call this dendrosemiotics), while, on the other hand, working towards an outline of a symbiotic theory of bioculture. I thus attempt to show that becoming acquainted with the functions of the bald cypress knees enables an interesting interpretation not only of the role that they could play as objects in collections but also of the phenomenon of creating collections as such. I will also test the hypothesis that both the presence in the surrounding environment of objects made from the knees of the bald cypress, as well as this tree's place in parks and gardens, can trigger humans’ chemical memory, thus evoking the atavistic aspects of its current existence.
