Antique Natural HistoryOriginal plates from the naturalists' books, 1600s to 1900s
"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760
"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, view 2

Close-ups

"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, close-up 1"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, close-up 2"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, close-up 3"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, close-up 4"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, close-up 5

Framed and on the wall

"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, shown framed"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, shown framed on a wall"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760, shown framed in a room

Frame and rooms are illustrations of how the print could look; the description says what is included.

"Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection, circa 1760

€140 ($155, £120, €140)

Period original, not a reproduction.

Enquire about this print

Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.

Date
1760
Size
11.8 × 9.4 in (30 × 24 cm)
Condition
Good. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Protected by a thin matting board. Please study scan carefully.
Period
18th century
Section
Insects and butterflies
Reference
f_42405422

Title: "Entomologie - Lepidoptera Study Plate" from Encyclopedic Collection

Description: This exquisite hand-colored engraving, titled "Entomologie - Lepidoptères," is a beautifully detailed plate focusing on the diversity of butterflies and moths. Originating from an 18th-century French encyclopedic collection, this print features nine distinct illustrations showcasing various butterfly and moth species along with their developmental stages and host plants. The engraver’s attention to detail highlights the vibrant colors and unique patterns of each specimen, offering a captivating glimpse into the world of entomology.

The charming hand-coloring emphasizes the natural beauty of each insect, bringing this scientific study to life. The print is a valuable example of 18th-century natural history illustration, produced at a time when exploration and scientific discovery were at the forefront of European culture. The annotations provide additional information, indicating the species, their larvae, and resting forms, making this piece both an educational and visually appealing work.

Printed on high-quality, laid paper, this plate maintains an elegant appearance, complete with double framing that enhances its decorative charm. This piece is perfect for collectors of historical natural history illustrations or anyone with an interest in entomology, celebrating the timeless fascination with the wonders of the natural world.