The Mythological Origins of the Word “Iris”
The word “iris” holds deep roots in Greek mythology, where it was used to describe Iris, the goddess of the rainbow and a divine messenger between gods and mortals. Known for her swift movement across the sky on colourful rainbows, Iris was believed to bridge the heavens and the earth. This association with the rainbow is especially fitting when we think about the human eye, which can showcase a vast spectrum of colours in its iris, from deep brown to bright blue and everything in between.
The iris in your eye—the part that controls the size of your pupil—derives its name from this ancient goddess, thanks to its circular shape and the wide range of colours that are often compared to the colours of the rainbow. Just as no two rainbows are identical, every person’s iris is completely unique, making this mythological connection all the more relevant.
From Myth to Anatomy
In Greek mythology, Iris’s role as a messenger goddess who travelled on rainbows symbolised communication and connection, which resonates with the idea of the eye being a window to the soul. The iris, as the most colourful and distinctive part of the eye, draws our attention and adds to our individual identity, much like a rainbow adds beauty to the sky.
The name “iris” was later adopted in the field of anatomy to describe the colourful part of the eye. This connection between ancient mythology and modern anatomy speaks to the rich history behind the word and how ancient cultures were often inspired by nature and the natural world in their naming conventions.
The Iris in Botany
Interestingly, the word “iris” is also used in botany to describe a genus of flowers that, like the eye, come in a wide variety of vivid colours. Iris flowers are known for their striking beauty and rich palette, ranging from deep purples and blues to bright yellows and whites. This floral connection further reinforces the idea of diversity in nature, whether in the form of flowers or human eyes, and strengthens the symbolic connection between the mythological goddess of the rainbow and the beauty of natural colours.
Iris Photography and Its Symbolism
In Iris Photography, the name becomes even more symbolic. Much like the rainbow that Iris travels on, the human iris captures a spectrum of colours and patterns that make each eye unique. Through specialised photography, these patterns are magnified and turned into stunning pieces of personalised art, allowing people to celebrate their individuality.
By focusing on the beauty of each person’s iris, this art form mirrors the ancient symbol of the rainbow—diverse, colourful, and entirely unique. Capturing the intricate details of the eye can feel almost magical, especially knowing the rich mythological history behind the word “iris.”
Bridging Art and Science
The dual meaning of “iris,” referring both to anatomy and mythology, highlights the perfect intersection of art and science. Just as the goddess Iris connected the divine with humanity, Iris Photography connects the beauty of science—the anatomy of the eye—with the art of photography. Each image celebrates the science of human uniqueness while embracing the artistry of capturing something so personal and colourful.
Conclusion: The Power of a Name
The ancient Greeks couldn’t have known how much their mythology would influence our modern understanding of both science and art, but the word “iris” serves as a beautiful reminder of this connection. Whether you’re admiring a rainbow in the sky, a vibrant iris flower, or a photograph of your own eye, the legacy of the goddess Iris lives on.
If you’re interested in celebrating the unique beauty of your own iris through personalised photography, feel free to reach out and book a session. Just like the goddess of the rainbow, your iris is a stunning and one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
