Preview is protected. Sign in to see a larger watermarked preview.

Engraving of Moths and Insects by Wenceslaus Hollar, 1645

This detailed engraving, created by Wenceslaus Hollar in 1645, showcases a collection of insects, primarily moths, alongside smaller creatures like a bee and beetles. The artwork is rendered in a classic etching style, with fine lines and cross-hatching used to define the intricate patterns on the moths' wings and the delicate features of the other insects. The composition is balanced, with the larger moths dominating the center, while smaller specimens are strategically placed around them. The inscription at the top indicates the artist and the collection from which the subjects were drawn, 'Wollar fecit ex Collectione Arundelianae 1645.' This piece serves as a valuable historical document of entomological illustration from the 17th century, highlighting the scientific and artistic interest in the natural world during that period. Its monochromatic palette and precise execution make it a fine example of Baroque-era printmaking.

Colour palette