Deaths Head Hawkmoth Collection

Acherontia atropos, death s-head hawk-moth
A mounted specimen of the death s-head hawk-moth, which takes its name from the skull-like image on its thorax. Specimen from the Natural History Museum, London

The Hireling Shepherd, 1851, (1948). Creator: William Holman Hunt
The Hireling Shepherd, 1851, (1948). A shepherd neglects his flock and woos a young woman with a lamb on her lap. Behind them, two bloated sheep lie on the ground poisoned by the corn

Death's head hawkmoth, Acherontia atropos, moth, caterpillar and pupa (Jasmine sphinx, Sphinx atropos)
FLO4683219 Death's head hawkmoth, Acherontia atropos, moth, caterpillar and pupa (Jasmine sphinx, Sphinx atropos). Illustration drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder

Death's Head hawkmoth, Acherontia atropos, and oak hawkmoth, Marumba quercus
FLO4671033 Death's Head hawkmoth, Acherontia atropos, and oak hawkmoth, Marumba quercus. Handcoloured steel engraving by the Pauquet brothers after an illustration by Alexis Nicolas Noel

Hawk Moths - Scanned 1876 Engraving

Harmful insects: Deaths Head Hawkmoth (colour litho)
971918 Harmful insects: Deaths Head Hawkmoth (colour litho) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Harmful insects: Deaths Head Hawkmoth)

An Orange-Headed Ground Thrush and a Death s-Head Moth on a Purple Ebony... dated 1778
An Orange-Headed Ground Thrush and a Death s-Head Moth on a Purple Ebony Orchid Branch, dated 1778

Death s-Head Hawkmoth, caterpillar on narrow stem

Acherontia atropos, deaths head hawkmoth
Illustration from Familiar British Insects (1887) by Theo Johnson

Death's-head Hawkmoth - caterpillar
ME-1891 Death's-head Hawkmoth - caterpillar Acherontia atropos Johan De Meester Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

Death's-head Hawkmoth
ME-1890 Death's-head Hawkmoth Acherontia atropos Johan De Meester Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

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The Deaths Head Hawkmoth, scientifically known as Acherontia atropos, is a captivating and mysterious creature that has fascinated artists and entomologists alike. Its distinctive skull-like marking on its thorax gives it a haunting appearance, earning it the name "death's head hawk-moth. " One of the most famous depictions of this enigmatic moth can be found in William Holman Hunt's painting "The Hireling Shepherd" from 1851. The inclusion of the death's head hawk-moth in this pastoral scene adds an element of intrigue and symbolism to the artwork. Hawk moths, including the deaths head variety, are known for their impressive size and swift flight. Their ability to hover like hummingbirds makes them a mesmerizing sight to behold. These insects have also been featured in various illustrations throughout history, such as color lithographs showcasing their unique beauty. However, despite their aesthetic appeal they can often considered harmful insects due to their caterpillars' feeding habits. They have been observed devouring plants from various families with no discrimination. In some historical artworks dating back centuries ago, we find intriguing compositions featuring unexpected encounters between nature's creatures. For instance, an orange-headed ground thrush perched alongside a death s-head moth on a purple ebony branch creates an ethereal scene captured in 1778. Butterflies have long captivated human imagination with their delicate wings and vibrant colors; however, deaths head hawkmoths offer something different - an air of mystery and darkness that sets them apart from other winged beauties. Whether depicted as caterpillars clinging onto narrow stems or showcased in full glory with outstretched wings ready for flight – these images remind us of the fascinating diversity found within our natural world. The deaths head hawkmoth continues to capture our attention through artistry and scientific study alike. Its eerie skull-like markings juxtaposed with its graceful flight make it a creature of intrigue and fascination.