Large Antique Entomology Poster – Dragonflies, Crickets & Flies, ca.1880
€ 840
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1880
Sheet size
84 × 65 cm (33.1 × 25.6 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13646-2
Condition
Very good condition for its age. There is light general toning and some minor foxing in the wide margins, typical for late 19th-century prints. Colours remain vivid, and the plate impression is strong. No tears or repairs noted in the image area.
About this sheet
Large Antique Entomology Poster – Dragonflies, Crickets, Flies & Mole Crickets, 65x84 cm
This impressive large-format antique entomology poster depicts a wide range of insects in fine scientific detail. Measuring approximately 65 x 84 cm (25.6 x 33 inches), it was published by Carl Gerold's Sohn in Vienna around 1880 as part of a natural history educational series. The lithograph was drawn by M. Frohlich-Schlereth and engraved by Bannwarth, both known for their accurate and artistic natural history illustrations.
The poster shows several dragonflies and damselflies with their wings spread to display the delicate venation patterns. A large bright green bush cricket or katydid is illustrated in side view with its wings and long antennae carefully rendered. There are also detailed images of mole crickets with their powerful digging forelimbs, a black cricket, and a crane fly with its long legs and slender body. The illustrations include life stages, such as larvae and nymphs, to show the insects' full developmental cycle. Each specimen is numbered for reference, as originally used in scientific and educational contexts.
This print combines artistic beauty with scientific accuracy, making it highly decorative for natural history collectors, entomology enthusiasts, or anyone interested in antique zoological art. Its large poster size makes it ideal for display in libraries, studies, museums, classrooms, or as a unique statement piece in a living room or office with a curiosity or vintage theme.
Condition report: Very good condition for its age. There is light general toning and some minor foxing in the wide margins, typical for late 19th-century prints. Colours remain vivid, and the plate impression is strong. No tears or repairs noted in the image area.
Framing tip: This poster will look best framed in a slim black metal or oak wood frame to emphasise its scientific character. For an elegant museum presentation, use an off-white or natural linen mount to highlight the intricate hand-coloured details of the dragonflies, crickets, and mole crickets.
