Illustrations of British Hawk Moths and their Larvae, by Theophilus Johnson

An exceedingly rare and beautifully-illustrated work by Carl Gustav Jablonsky and JFW Herbst, whose Natursystem is one of the first attempts at a complete survey of exotic and European butterflies, and edited following the system of Carl Linnaeus (1707 – 1778), the father of modern taxonomy, as stated in the subtitle of the work. Jablonsky, Carl Gustav & J.F.W. Herbst. Natursystem aller bekannten in- und ausländischen Insekten: Schmetterlinge; Nach dem System des Ritters Carl von Linné...

Aesop (S. Croxall transl.) The Fables of Aesop; With a Life of the Author; and Embellished with one Hundred & twelve Plates London: John Stockdale, 1793. FIRST EDITION - 2 vol., La...

An antique hand-colored engraving. This particular illustration focuses on various moth and butterfly species, showcasing their wing patterns and body shapes in vibrant colors and with a high level of detail. The different specimens are numbered and named at the bottom, likely corresponding to their scientific names, which are partially legible and written in French. These include various types of moths and butterflies with distinct markings, such as eye-like spots on their wings, which are often used in nature as a form of mimicry or to ward off predators. The artistic style is consistent with scientific illustrations of the 19th century, aimed at providing an accurate representation of the insects for study and reference. The paper shows signs of aging, indicating the historical value of the print. This type of illustration would have been a vital educational tool at the time, combining scientific interest with an appreciation for the beauty of these creatures. The illustrator has captured both the structural and aesthetic qualities of the insects, which would have been important for both scientific taxonomy and for those with a general interest in natural history. The image appears to be a caption section from an antique hand-colored engraving, listing the names of various moth and butterfly species. The names are in French and are likely to correspond to the illustrations of the specimens on the main engraving. Here's the list of the species with a description based on the names provided: 1. **SÉSIE freloniforme**: This is likely a species of clearwing moth, which mimics the appearance of a hornet or wasp (hence "freloniforme", resembling a hornet). Clearwing moths are known for their transparent wings and mimicry for defense against predators. 2. **PROCRIS du Statice**: This could refer to a species of moth or butterfly associated with sea-lavender plants...

This is a hand-colored antique engraving depicting the natural history of the Tortoise-shell Butterfly and Privet Hawk Moth, which is plate 2 from Moses Harris' publication "The Aure...