Death's-Head Hawkmoth and Caterpillars, Brodtmann Print, 1816

Death's-Head Hawkmoth, Eyed Hawkmoth & Oleander Hawkmoth, 1816

This attractive original hand-colored lithograph illustrates the life cycles of three remarkable species of hawkmoths (family Sphingidae), depicted with scientific precision and artistic elegance. Published in 1816, the plate combines natural history illustration with early entomological study, showing each species in its caterpillar, chrysalis, and adult stages.

The German title at the bottom, *Dämmerungsfalter* ("Twilight Moths" or "Crepuscular Moths"), refers to moths active during dusk and evening hours. The composition features three of Europe's most striking hawkmoths, arranged vertically to demonstrate their transformation from larva to pupa and finally to the fully developed moth.

At the upper right appears the famous Death's-Head Hawkmoth (*Acherontia atropos*), known for the skull-like marking on its thorax that has fascinated naturalists and inspired folklore for centuries. Opposite it are the caterpillar and chrysalis stages, carefully rendered to illustrate the insect's development.

The middle section depicts the Eyed Hawkmoth (*Smerinthus ocellata*), identified in the original text as *Der Weidenschwärmer*. The adult moth displays vivid eye-like markings on its hindwings, an evolutionary adaptation used to startle predators. The corresponding caterpillar and chrysalis are shown nearby.

The lower section features the magnificent Oleander Hawkmoth (*Daphnis nerii*), one of the most beautiful hawkmoths in the world. Its wings are decorated with intricate green camouflage patterns highlighted by delicate pink and cream accents. The accompanying caterpillar, shown feeding on a flowering plant, demonstrates the dramatic appearance of the larval stage before metamorphosis.

The letters accompanying each figure identify the various developmental stages:

a, c, e: Caterpillars (*Die Raupe*)

b, d, f: Chrysalides (*Die Puppe*)

This print originates from the celebrated natural history work of Swiss artist and illustrator Karl Joseph Brodtmann (1787–1862). Brodtmann was among the leading practitioners of early lithography and became renowned for combining scientific accuracy with exceptional artistic quality. His hand-colored plates remain highly sought after by collectors of entomology, natural history, and decorative antique prints.

The combination of scientific interest, vivid original coloring, and elegant composition makes this an outstanding display piece for collectors of butterflies and moths, natural history illustrations, and early nineteenth-century lithography.

Keywords: Death's-Head Hawkmoth, Acherontia atropos, Eyed Hawkmoth, Smerinthus ocellata, Oleander Hawkmoth, Daphnis nerii, Hawkmoths, Sphingidae, Caterpillar, Chrysalis, Metamorphosis, Entomology, Natural History, Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Hand-Colored Lithograph, Scientific Illustration, Insects, Moths, Lepidoptera, Antique Print, German Natural History, Lindau 1816, Dämmerungsfalter.

Condition report:

Good condition considering age. Light age toning, occasional foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with a print more than 200 years old. The original hand coloring remains fresh and attractive. Please examine the photographs carefully.

Framing tips:

This print displays beautifully in a dark walnut, ebonized, or gilt frame with an ivory museum mat. The varied colors of the moths and caterpillars stand out particularly well against neutral matting. An excellent choice for libraries, studies, conservatories, and collections devoted to natural history or entomology.

Technique: Hand-colored lithograph

Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, published in Lindau, 1816.