Moth Life Cycle: Handcolored Engraving from Bertuch's Encyclopedia, 1805
€ 130
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1805
Sheet size
23 × 22 cm (9.1 × 8.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14000-62
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
The condition of the engraving is very good, with vibrant colors and minor age-related imperfections that do not detract from its appeal. This plate would be an excellent addition to a natural history collection or an elegant display piece.
About this sheet
This handcolored copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuch’s "Bilderbuch für Kinder" (Picture Book for Children) beautifully illustrates various stages in the life cycle of moths, showcasing caterpillars, pupae, and their exquisite adult forms.
The plate is meticulously detailed, highlighting the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of each stage. Published in Weimar in 1805, this plate is part of Bertuch’s 12-volume encyclopedia, celebrated for its visual appeal and scientific accuracy.
The engraving offers insight into the natural history of moths, capturing their transformation with precision. The life cycle stages depicted are particularly intriguing for their artistry and educational value, making this engraving both a scientific reference and a work of art. The vibrant hand-coloring adds a lifelike quality that elevates the piece.
The condition of the engraving is very good, with vibrant colors and minor age-related imperfections that do not detract from its appeal. This plate would be an excellent addition to a natural history collection or an elegant display piece, particularly in a natural wood or metallic frame to complement its timeless charm.
