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Deaths Head hawk moth, Acherontia atropos
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Deaths Head hawk moth, Acherontia atropos
Deaths Head hawk moth, Acherontia atropos. Handcoloured steel engraving from Georg Friedrich Treitschkes Gallery of Natural History, Naturhistorischer Bildersaal des Thierreiches, Liepzig, 1842
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Media ID 23207418
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Acherontia Atropos Bildersaal Caterpillar Deaths Entomology Friedrich Gallery Georg Hawk Hawkmoth Larva Lepidoptera Moth Naturhistorischer Thierreiches Treitschke
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisitely detailed handcoloured steel engraving depicts the Deaths Head Hawk Moth, Acherontia atropos, a fascinating and intriguing creature from the Lepidoptera order. The image is taken from Georg Friedrich Treitschke's Gallery of Natural History, Naturhistorischer Bildersaal des Thierreiches, published in Leipzig in 1842. The Deaths Head Hawk Moth is renowned for its distinctive and somewhat ominous appearance, with the adult moth bearing a striking resemblance to a human skull. This feature is particularly evident in the caterpillar stage, which has a head adorned with two large, yellow spots that resemble the eyes and nose of a skull. Despite its macabre appearance, the Deaths Head Hawk Moth is not associated with death or harm. Instead, it is a harmless creature that plays an essential role in the ecosystem as a pollinator. The adult moth is attracted to flowers, particularly those with strong odours, and the caterpillars feed on a variety of plants, including dead or decaying matter. The intricate details of this engraving highlight the beauty and complexity of the Deaths Head Hawk Moth, showcasing the meticulous work of the artist and the advanced techniques of the time. The use of handcolouring adds an extra layer of depth and vibrancy to the image, enhancing the natural colours and textures of the moth's wings and body. This engraving is an excellent example of the high-quality illustrations produced during the 19th century, reflecting the growing interest in entomology and the natural world. The Deaths Head Hawk Moth remains a popular subject in scientific and artistic circles, inspiring fascination and wonder in equal measure.
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