The artwork, titled “from Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium, Plate XLVIII,” was created by Maria Sibylla Merian in the year 1705. This work is part of the Naturalism art movement and falls under the genre of animal painting.
The artwork meticulously depicts various stages of insects and their interactions with plant life. An array of vibrant insects, including a fully developed beetle, a caterpillar, and their larvae, are illustrated in intricate detail. These creatures are presented alongside a plant branch, complete with leaves, buds, and fruits, embodying the life cycle from larvae to adult insect. The composition showcases the close relationship between insects and plants, portrayed through a combination of realism and scientific observation characteristic of Naturalism. The precision and accuracy in depicting botanical themes and insects reflect Merian’s keen observational skills and contribute to the artwork’s educational value as well as aesthetic appeal.
