Maria Sibylla Merian Watercolor Study of a tulip, two crocus and two insects

MERIAN, Maria Sibylla (German, 1647-1717).
Study of a tulip, two crocus and two insects.
Black lead, pen and black ink, watercolor and bodycolor with gilt framing lines, on vellum.
Faded and abraded inscription bottom center appearing to be in Agneta Block’s hand, and lettered specimen plants and shells throughout
Likely commissioned by Agneta Block.
13 x 9 1/4" vellum, 23 3/4" x 20 1/2" framed.

Merian was thoughtful in her selection of materials used for each composition. Her choice of metallic paints was not simply an enhancement for wealthy collectors; she chose it to highlight the features of a species. Here, we see two insects that would have greatly interested this curious entomologist. On the left, Euchroma giganteum, the Metallic Wood Boring Beetle, or Giant Metallic Ceiba Borer, is one of the largest buprestid beetles. Merian diligent- ly painted the distinctive wrinkled surface and metallic green color with reddish-purplish tinges. Native to Central and South America. On the right is Buprestis fasciata, a metallic wood-boring beetle native to the Caribbean and North America. Both beetles would have been featured exotic in a cabinet of curiosities.