Antique Natural HistoryOriginal plates from the naturalists' books, 1600s to 1900s
Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805

Close-ups

Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 1Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 2Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 3Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 4Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 5Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, close-up 6

Framed and on the wall

Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, shown framedMoth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, shown framed on a wallMoth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805, shown framed in a room

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

Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805

$145 (£110, €130)

Period original, not a reproduction.

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

Date
1805
Size
9.1 × 8.7 in (23 × 22 cm)
Condition
Good. The condition of the engraving is very good, with vibrant colors and minor age-related imperfections that do not detract from its appeal. This plate would be an excellent addition to a natural history collection or an elegant display piece.
Period
Early 19th century
Artist or book
Bertuch
Section
Insects and butterflies
Reference
f_43119382

This handcolored copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuch’s "Bilderbuch für Kinder" (Picture Book for Children) beautifully illustrates various stages in the life cycle of moths, showcasing caterpillars, pupae, and their exquisite adult forms.

The plate is meticulously detailed, highlighting the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of each stage. Published in Weimar in 1805, this plate is part of Bertuch’s 12-volume encyclopedia, celebrated for its visual appeal and scientific accuracy.

The engraving offers insight into the natural history of moths, capturing their transformation with precision. The life cycle stages depicted are particularly intriguing for their artistry and educational value, making this engraving both a scientific reference and a work of art. The vibrant hand-coloring adds a lifelike quality that elevates the piece.

The condition of the engraving is very good, with vibrant colors and minor age-related imperfections that do not detract from its appeal. This plate would be an excellent addition to a natural history collection or an elegant display piece, particularly in a natural wood or metallic frame to complement its timeless charm.