The artwork titled “Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium (Metamorphosis of the Insects of Suriname), figure 46” was created by Maria Sibylla Merian in the year 1705. It belongs to the art movement known as Naturalism and falls within the genre of animal painting.
This exquisite work of art beautifully illustrates a detailed natural scene. It depicts a slender, flowering plant, upon which various stages of an insect’s life cycle are carefully rendered. The lower part of the plant supports a vividly coiled snake, adding intricacy to the scene. The central theme of the artwork is the metamorphosis of insects, showcasing caterpillars, a chrysalis, and an adult moth. The meticulous details and lifelike portrayal capture the delicate interplay between the insects and their botanical surroundings, demonstrating Merian’s profound observational skills and artistic talent.
