Antique Engraving of Spiders, Centipede and Scorpion by Diderot, ca.1770

Antique Engraving of Spiders, Centipede and Scorpion from Diderot’s Encyclopédie, ca. 1770

An original copperplate engraving from Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d’Alembert’s *Encyclopédie ou Dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers*, Paris, circa 1770. This striking plate, from the *Histoire naturelle* section, depicts a selection of arachnids and related arthropods, rendered with the precision and curiosity characteristic of Enlightenment natural history.

The composition features a large tarantula (Fig. 1), a smaller spider (Fig. 2), and a long-legged harvestman or daddy-longlegs (Fig. 3). Below is a detailed centipede (Fig. 4), its segmented body carefully engraved to emphasize the rhythm of its many legs. The lower right presents a powerful scorpion (Fig. 5), shown with raised tail and prominent pincers, capturing both its anatomy and its menacing stance.

This engraving reflects the encyclopedists’ ambition to catalog not only the beautiful but also the formidable and less familiar members of the animal kingdom. While European readers of the 18th century were fascinated by exotic butterflies, shells, and corals, they were equally captivated by the fearsome forms of scorpions and spiders, many of which arrived as reports or specimens from distant colonies. The engraver’s skillful shading and linework provide both scientific clarity and decorative power, making this plate a compelling historical artifact.

Condition report: Good condition with strong platemark. Some marginal toning and light handling marks consistent with age. Image sharp and well preserved. Offered as a single unframed folio sheet.

Framing tips: This plate stands out as a dramatic display piece, particularly in contrast with more delicate natural history engravings. A dark wood or black frame with a wide ivory mount will highlight the bold forms, while a double mat with a thin red or ochre inner line can enhance its dramatic impact.

Technique: Copperplate engraving

Maker: Denis Diderot & Jean le Rond d’Alembert, Paris, ca. 1770