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Photo Mug : Panagaeus cruxmajor Darwins lost beetle
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Panagaeus cruxmajor Darwins lost beetle
From Donovans " Natural History of British Insects" (plate by Donovan, volume circa 1806). Greater crucifix beetle, Panagaeus cruxmajor, on a grass stem. This rare European ground beetle was a prize for any 19th century collector. In a letter to his old friend Leonard Jenyns (17 Oct 1846) Darwin recounted an incident as an Undergraduate at Cambridge University where he saw " the sacred Panagaeus crux major" Having collected a carabid beetle in each hand already he was forced to free a hand by placing one of the beetles between his teeth. Unfortunately the beetle was able to squirt a highly acrid afluid, and in spitting it out he lost all three
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6317689
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
Beetle Cambridge Charles Darwin Collecting Darwin Rare Specimen Autobiography Christ College Christs College Undergraduate
Large Photo Mug (15 oz)
Bring the beauty of the natural world into your daily routine with our Media Storehouse Photo Mugs. Featuring an exquisite image of the Greater Crucifix Beetle, Panagaeus cruxmajor, captured by Paul D. Stewart from Science Photo Library. This rare beetle, also known as Darwins lost beetle, is depicted gracefully perched on a grass stem in this stunning vintage illustration from Donovans "Natural History of British Insects" (circa 1806). Each mug holds your favorite beverage and serves as a unique conversation starter, adding a touch of natural history charm to your table. Experience the joy of sipping your coffee or tea while admiring the intricate details of this fascinating insect. Perfect for nature lovers, scientists, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world.
Elevate your coffee or tea experience with our premium white ceramic mug. Its wide, comfortable handle makes drinking easy, and you can rely on it to be both microwave and dishwasher safe. Sold in single units, preview may show both sides of the same mug so you can see how the picture wraps around.
Elevate your coffee or tea experience with our premium white ceramic mug. Its wide, comfortable handle makes drinking easy, and you can rely on it to be both microwave and dishwasher safe. Sold in single units, preview may show both sides of the same mug so you can see how the picture wraps around.
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Panagaeus cruxmajor, also known as Darwin's lost beetle, from Donovan's "Natural History of British Insects" published around 1806. The image depicts a magnificent Greater crucifix beetle perched delicately on a slender grass stem. This rare European ground beetle was highly sought after by collectors in the 19th century. In an intriguing letter to his dear friend Leonard Jenyns dated October 17,1846, Charles Darwin recounted a memorable incident from his time as an undergraduate at Cambridge University. He vividly described encountering "the sacred Panagaeus crux major". With two carabid beetles already clasped in each hand, he found himself compelled to place one between his teeth to free up a hand. However, much to Darwin's dismay, this particular beetle possessed the ability to release a potent and acrid fluid. In his attempt to spit it out swiftly, he inadvertently lost all three precious specimens. The artwork beautifully captures both the rarity and allure of this extraordinary insect specimen. It serves as a testament not only to Darwin's passion for entomology but also highlights the fascinating anecdotes that shaped his scientific journey during his time at Christ's College in Cambridge. Paul D. Stewart masterfully brings together artistry and scientific accuracy in this remarkable illustration that transports us back into the world of Charles Darwin and his pursuit of knowledge about our natural world.
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