First Published in 1776, Moses Harris' "The Aurelian: A Natural History of English Moths and Butterflies," was inspired by its author's fascination with gardens and the study of insects that was very much in vogue in Europe of the mid-to-late 18th century. In this famous collection of engravings, English moths and butterflies are depicted among the plants on which they feed and in the settings where they transform from chrysalis to adult insect. These are not just engraved plates for the benefit of science. They are masterful works of art and beauty, and the curiosities strewn across the edges of the frame make them quirky and fascinating.

I am so thrilled to offer six plates from the 2nd edition of "The Aurelian," printed circa 1840. Each engraving is printed in sepia and hand-colored with watercolor bound with gum Arabic, a binding that gives the colors their vibrancy.

Each print is sold unframed and individually.

• 20" x 16"
• Sold Individually
• Sold Unframed

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