Bilder George Shaw & Frederick Nodder – Nepa Grandis – Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving – 1798

Beskrivning

This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving depicts Nepa grandis, a species of aquatic insect known for its distinctive flattened body and raptorial forelegs, resembling a water scorpion. The illustration shows two views: one with extended wings in flight (Fig. 1), and another in resting posture (Fig. 2), highlighting the insect’s anatomy and morphological detail. Originally published in The Naturalist's Miscellany, a monumental serial work on natural history by George Shaw and illustrated by Frederick Nodder, this engraving reflects the Enlightenment era’s fascination with taxonomy and biodiversity.

Shaw and Nodder's collaborative series was among the first to make detailed natural history accessible to a wide audience, combining scientific accuracy with artistic elegance.

Artist or Maker: George Shaw and Frederick Nodder

Dimensions: 25 cm x 19 cm

Medium: Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving

Date: 1798

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.