Queensland State Archives posted a photo:
Pears are from the rosaceae family, close cousins to apples and quinces, and also related to almonds, a simpatico familial member. They’re an ancient fruit with references in Greek mythology, linked to Venus the Roman goddess of love, were one of the first fruits to be cultivated in Britain, and were grown in Australia upon the arrival of the First Fleet.
They are a diverse group, with many types of sub-species, but the main distinction is between the European and Asian pears. It’s thought that both developed along parallel time lines but in different parts of the world. European pears tend to have an elongated shape and are usually buttery, soft fleshed, sweet and subtle. Asian pears, including nashis, are often more rounded in shape, with a crunchy texture and a sweetness that’s balanced with a hint of tart acidity; they also have a different cell