Insects of Surinam, 18th century C013 / 6587
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Insects of Surinam, 18th century C013 / 6587
Insects of Surinam. 18th-century artwork showing a tree with ants and spiders. At upper left, in a web with spiderlings, is a huntsman spider (Heteropoda venatoria). At lower left and centre right are pinktoe tarantulas (Avicularia avicularia) preying on ants and a bird on its nest. The ants are also preying on an insect at lower right. This artwork is from Metamorphosibus Insectorum Surinamensium (1705) by German nature illustrator Maria Sybilla Merian (1647-1717). Surinam (now called Suriname) is in northern South America
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9197939
© NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, LONDON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1700s 1705 18th Century Arachnid Arthropod Arthropods Bird Branches Entomological Feeding German Guiana Hunting Insects Maria Sybilla Merian Natural History Nest Plants Preying South America South American Spider Surinam Suriname Surinamese Tarantula Tropics Avicularia Avicularia Heteropoda Venatoria Huntsman Spider
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 18th-century artwork, titled "Insects of Surinam" takes us on a journey through the lush tropical forests of northern South America. Created by renowned German nature illustrator Maria Sybilla Merian, this print showcases an intricate ecosystem teeming with life. At first glance, our eyes are drawn to the magnificent tree dominating the composition. Its branches serve as a bustling highway for various insects and arachnids going about their daily activities. In the upper left corner, we witness a mesmerizing sight - a huntsman spider delicately tending to her web filled with tiny spiderlings. As we explore further, our attention is captured by two pinktoe tarantulas positioned at lower left and center right. These formidable predators skillfully prey upon unsuspecting ants scurrying below them. Meanwhile, in another corner of this vibrant scene, ants themselves engage in their own hunt for food as they overpower an unfortunate insect. Merian's meticulous attention to detail brings these creatures to life before our eyes. Each stroke of her brush captures not only their physical features but also their behaviors and interactions within this complex ecosystem. "Insects of Surinam" transports us back in time to an era when scientific exploration was flourishing. It serves as a testament to both Merian's artistic talent and her dedication to documenting the natural world around her. This remarkable piece continues to inspire awe and curiosity centuries later, reminding us of the incredible diversity that exists within Earth's ecosystems.
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