Home > Arts > Still life artwork > Still life art > Nature-inspired artwork
Butterfly, 17th century artwork
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Butterfly, 17th century artwork
Butterfly, 17th century artwork. Butterflies are winged insects that develop from a larval form known as a caterpillar. The larvae eat leaves, while butterflies feed on nectar. The wing patterns can help distinguish males and females, and can also help to deter predators. This is a woodcut from a book by the English naturalist and physician Thomas Muffet (1553-1604). The book was titled Insectorum sive minimorum animalium theatrum (Theatre of Insects), and was published in London in 1634
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6301837
© MIDDLE TEMPLE LIBRARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1600s 17th Century Butter Fly Entomological Insecta Insects Lepidoptera Lepidopteran Natural History Wing Winged Wings 1634 Mono Chrome
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Nature-inspired artwork
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Nature-inspired art
> Arts
> Portraits
> Still life artwork
> Nature-inspired artwork
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Still life
> Still life artwork
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 17th-century artwork showcases the delicate beauty of a butterfly, an enchanting creature that has fascinated humans for centuries. The woodcut print is part of a renowned book titled "Insectorum sive minimorum animalium theatrum" (Theatre of Insects) by Thomas Muffet, an English naturalist and physician from the 17th century. Butterflies undergo a remarkable transformation, starting their lives as caterpillars and eventually emerging as winged insects. While in their larval form, they voraciously consume leaves to fuel their growth. Once they transform into butterflies, these graceful creatures feed on nectar from flowers. The intricate patterns adorning the wings serve multiple purposes. Not only do they help distinguish between male and female butterflies but also act as a defense mechanism against predators. These mesmerizing patterns can deter potential threats by mimicking eyes or other intimidating shapes. This monochrome artwork provides us with a glimpse into the world of these fascinating invertebrates. It serves as both an artistic masterpiece and an important historical document in the field of zoology and entomology. Published in London in 1634, this woodcut print captures the essence of nature's wonders during the early years of scientific exploration. Its timeless appeal reminds us of our enduring fascination with wildlife and our continuous quest to understand the intricacies of biology.
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.
