Bilder Eleazar Albin (1680–1742) – Entomological Study of Moths and Larvae – Hand-coloured copper engraving (1720)

Beskrivning

"Moths and Larvae" presents a natural history study of several insect species depicted alongside their larval and pupal stages on botanical cuttings. The upper portion of the composition features a large, dark caterpillar with red prolegs climbing a birch branch, accompanied by two moths with intricate grey and black speckled wing patterns and a dark pupa. The lower portion illustrates a brown larva on a hawthorn branch bearing red berries, with two yellow-winged moths and an additional pupa displayed in the surrounding space. This hand-coloured copper engraving is part of A Natural History of English Insects, published in London by Eleazar Albin in 1720. The work is dedicated to the Right Honorable Elizabeth Butler Countess Dowager of Derby and is recognized for its early contribution to the systematic visual documentation of the life cycles of British insects.

Eleazar Albin was an English natural history illustrator and painter who rose to prominence in London during the early eighteenth century. Originally a teacher of drawing and painting, he developed a specialty in documenting flora and fauna for the British aristocracy and scientific community. He is best known for his large-scale illustrated books on insects, birds, and fish, which were funded through subscriptions from wealthy patrons. Albin’s work is significant for its early use of hand-colouring to enhance the scientific utility and aesthetic appeal of zoological illustrations.

Artist or Maker:
Eleazar Albin.

Dimensions:
Approximately 28 cm x 23 cm.

Medium:
Hand-coloured copper engraving.

Date:
1720.

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.