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Moses Harris
Butterflies & Moths: A 1st Ed. Hand-colored 18th C. Engraving by M. Harris

1766

About the Item

This is a rare, original first edition hand-colored engraving depicting the natural history of butterflies and moths, which is plate 10 from Moses Harris' publication "The Aurelian: or Natural History of English Insects; Namely Moths & Butterflies", published in London in 1766. The engraving depicts the natural history developmental stages of the Oak Tree & Purple Hair-Streak Butterfly, the Green Silver Lines Moth, the Pea Green Moth, the Dun Bar Moth, the Scollop Winged Broad Bar Moth along with the botanical environment in which the insects are often found. The inscription below includes a dedication to a subscriber or patron, accompanied with the appropriate coat of arms. This dedication reads, 'To the Rt. Honorable Lady Hentrietta Alicia Wentworth. This Plate is humbly Dedicated by her Ladyship's most Obliged & Obedient Serv’t Moses Harris.' This beautifully hand-colored engraving is printed on wove paper with wide margins. It is signed in plate in the lower right. The sheet measure 16" high and 12. 25" wide. There are a few tiny spots, but the print is otherwise in excellent condition. Moses Harris (1730-1787) was a notable English entomologist and engraver, known for his significant contributions to the field of entomology and color theory. He left a lasting impact on the fields of entomology and color theory through his meticulous illustrations, scientific descriptions, and insightful exploration of colors. Harris made significant contributions to entomology with works like "The Aurelian or natural history of English insects" in 1766 in which this engraving was published. His works continue to be valued for their scientific accuracy and artistic merit. He was "one of the most outstanding authors of entomological literature during the eighteenth century." (Lisney) His work is considered "a timeless classic" and the "most celebrated of all the early books about butterflies and moths." (Salmon). Harris was not only an entomologist but also a skilled artist, showcasing his insect drawings at the Royal Academy in 1785. He illustrated various books, including Dru Drury's "Illustrations of Natural History" and John Coakley Lettsom's "The Naturalist's and Traveller's Companion." In his work "The Natural System of Colours" published in 1766, Harris delved into color theory, exploring the creation of colors from three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. He discussed how these colors could be mixed to produce a wide range of hues, emphasizing their relationships and coding. Harris' color theory work was influential in understanding color relationships and the principles behind color mixing.
  • Creator:
    Moses Harris (1731 - 1785, British)
  • Creation Year:
    1766
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 16 in (40.64 cm)Width: 12.25 in (31.12 cm)
  • Medium:
    Engraving
  • Period:
    Mid-18th Century
  • Framing:
    Framing Options Available
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Alamo, CA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: # 48801stDibs: LU1173214088602
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