The artwork titled “from Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium, Plate XX. (Thysania agrippina)” by Maria Sibylla Merian, created in 1705, epitomizes the Naturalism art movement and falls under the genre of animal painting. It is a detailed and scientifically illustrative depiction of the Thysania agrippina, a species of moth, in various stages of its lifecycle, set against the backdrop of a plant.
In the artwork, one observes the intricate portrayal of the Thysania agrippina both as a caterpillar and a mature moth, showcasing the stages of metamorphosis. The caterpillar is depicted in rich black and white stripes with a distinctive yellow bulb on its head, while the moth above it exhibits an elaborate pattern of brown and white wings. The surrounding foliage, rendered with meticulous attention to detail, complements the depiction of the moths and caterpillar, underscoring the rich biodiversity of Suriname. The inclusion of eggs on the plant further emphasizes the lifecycle theme inherent in the artwork. The precise depiction of the insects and the plant reflects Merian’s scientific exactitude and artistic excellence, characteristic of Naturalism.
