About this sheet
Original Antique Print of Exotic Insects, Lanternfly and Mantis, c. 1790
Original antique hand-colored engraving depicting a spectacular collection of exotic insects, including a lanternfly, praying mantis, locust, cicada and large horned beetles, dating from the 18th century.
The plate is titled “Insect. IV / Insectes IV” and presents six numbered insect subjects, together with two larval stages.
Particularly striking is Fig. 1, a large exotic lanternfly or lantern bug of the Fulgora group. It is depicted with an extraordinary elongated head and dramatically patterned wings decorated with prominent eye-like markings. Lanternflies were among the most celebrated exotic insects illustrated in European natural-history books of the 18th century.
Fig. 2 depicts a large winged locust or grasshopper, while Fig. 3 represents a praying mantis with its characteristic elongated body and powerful grasping forelegs.
Fig. 4 shows a cicada with transparent wings and strongly colored body.
Fig. 5 is an imposing horned beetle with exceptionally large curved mandibles or horns, dominating the upper part of the composition.
Fig. 6 depicts a smaller beetle, accompanied by two illustrations showing larval stages of its development.
The insects are beautifully enhanced with original hand coloring in vivid shades of yellow, green, orange, red and black. The combination of dramatically different species, unusually large scale and strong coloring makes this a particularly decorative example of early entomological illustration.
The plate reflects the intense European fascination during the 18th century with exotic insects arriving from Asia, Africa and the Americas through scientific expeditions, collecting and international trade.
Creator:
Unknown
Source:
Unidentified natural-history publication
Plate:
Insect. IV / Insectes IV
Date of Manufacture:
18th Century
Period:
18th Century
Style:
Natural History / Enlightenment – In the Period of
Medium:
Original hand-colored engraving on paper
Condition:
Good. Wear consistent with age and use. General age-related toning, scattered spotting and minor handling marks. Some marginal wear and minor imperfections consistent with age. Original hand coloring remains strong and attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition.
Please note:
This is an original antique 18th-century engraving, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
