Curtis British Entomology Plate 438

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Curtis British Entomology Plate 438

Coleoptera: Tasgius rufipes = Staphylinus pedator (Red-legged Staphylinus) [Plant: Vicia sepium (Bush Vetch)] Date: 1824-39

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 23039670

© The Robin Symington Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library

1820s 1830s Bush Butterflies Butterfly Coleoptera Curtis Entomology Ledipotera Red Legged Staphylinus Vetch Vicia Rufipes

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Animals > Insects > Butterflies > Related Images

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021

EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning entomological plate, titled "Coleoptera: Tasgius rufipes" and dating back to the 1820s-1830s, is a captivating representation of the Red-legged Staphylinus or Pedator Staphylinus (Staphylinus pedator), a predatory beetle species in the family Staphylinidae. The intricately detailed illustration was produced by the renowned British naturalist and botanist, John Curtis FLS, for his comprehensive work "British Entomology." The Red-legged Staphylinus is depicted in its natural habitat, perched on the leaves of Bush Vetch (Vicia sepium), a common wild flowering plant native to Europe and western Asia. The beetle's vibrant red legs contrast beautifully with its dark, elongated body and the lush green foliage of the bush vetch. Curtis' meticulous attention to detail is evident in the illustration, which captures the minute textures and patterns of the beetle's exoskeleton and the delicate veins and petals of the bush vetch. The artist's skillful use of shading and color further enhances the three-dimensional effect of the image, making it a true masterpiece of 19th-century natural history art. The Red-legged Staphylinus is an important predator in its ecosystem, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates, including aphids, mites, and other soft-bodied insects. Its bright red legs serve as a warning signal to potential predators, signaling its defensive ability to release a foul-smelling fluid when threatened. This beautiful plate is not only a testament to the rich biodiversity of the natural world but also a reminder of the remarkable achievements of early naturalists like John Curtis, who dedicated their lives to documenting and preserving the wonders of nature for future generations.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.