lyon) from the NMNH collection
The exhibition showcases the intricate beauty of the natural world as seen through the eyes of artists and naturalists from centuries past. From detailed scientific illustrations to whimsical compositions featuring insects and animals, Little Beasts offers a glimpse into the historical intersection of art and science.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is Jan van Kessel the Elder’s painting “Insects and a Sprig of Rosemary” from 1653. This oil painting on panel measures 4 1/2 x 5 1/2 inches and features a variety of butterflies and insects surrounding a delicate twig of rosemary. Van Kessel’s meticulous attention to detail and vibrant colors bring the tiny creatures to life on the canvas.
Another striking piece is Wenceslaus Hollar’s etching “Shell (Murex brandaris)” from around 1645. Measuring 3 3/4 x 5 3/8 inches, this biological rendering of a seashell showcases Hollar’s skill in capturing the intricate patterns and textures of the natural world. The delicate lines and shading in the etching highlight the beauty of the shell’s form.
Clara Peeters’ “Still Life with Flowers Surrounded by Insects and a Snail” is a captivating composition from around 1610. This oil painting on copper features a central oval arrangement of flowers, insects, and a snail against a dark background. The contrast between the vibrant colors of the flowers and the dark background creates a sense of drama and mystery in the painting.
Robert Hooke’s “Micrographia: or, Some physiological descriptions of minute bodies made by magnifying glasses” from 1665 is a bound volume with etched illustrations that offer a glimpse into the microscopic world. Hooke’s detailed observations and drawings of tiny bodies provide valuable insights into the hidden wonders of the natural world.
Jan van Kessel the Elder’s “Artist’s Name in Insects and Reptiles” from 1658 is a playful yet skillful composition that showcases the artist’s creativity. Using the forms of insects and reptiles, van Kessel spells out his own name in a whimsical display of artistic talent and imagination.
Jan van Kessel the Elder’s “Noah’s Family Assembling Animals Before the Ark” from around 1660 is a vibrant landscape painting that depicts a bustling woodland scene full of wildlife. The intricate details of the animals and plants bring the scene to life, capturing the harmony of nature and the diversity of species.
The exhibition also features a drawing of numerous kinds of caterpillars inside a penciled-in circle, as well as a preserved elephant beetle from the NMNH collection. These pieces highlight the diversity of creatures that have fascinated artists and naturalists throughout history.
Overall, Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art and science through the lens of historical artworks and scientific specimens. By bringing together works from the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the exhibition provides a comprehensive look at how artists and naturalists have documented and celebrated the beauty of the natural world over the centuries.
The Department of Entomology at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History houses a vast collection of specimens, including the elephas. This particular species of insect is a fascinating creature that has captured the attention of researchers and entomologists for years.
The elephas is a remarkable insect known for its unique physical characteristics and behaviors. With its large size and distinct coloring, this insect stands out among its counterparts. The Smithsonian’s collection of elephas specimens provides valuable insights into the biology and ecology of these creatures.
One particularly striking specimen in the collection is a 17th-century scientific illustration by Wenceslaus Hollar, titled “Two Butterflies, a Wasp, and a Moth.” This intricate etching on laid paper showcases the beauty and diversity of insect life, highlighting the intricate details of each species depicted.
Studying specimens like the elephas allows researchers to better understand the role of insects in the ecosystem. From pollination to decomposition, insects play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature. By studying the morphology and behavior of insects like the elephas, scientists can gain valuable insights into how these creatures interact with their environment.
The Smithsonian’s collection of elephas specimens is a treasure trove of information for researchers and enthusiasts alike. By studying these specimens, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and complexity of insect life. The detailed illustrations and descriptions provide a glimpse into the world of entomology and the important role that insects play in our world.
In conclusion, the elephas specimens in the Department of Entomology collections at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History are a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike. Through careful study and observation, we can continue to unravel the mysteries of these fascinating insects and gain a greater understanding of the natural world.
