Plate 20: Three Butterflies, a Caterpillar, a Bee, Two Chrysalides, and Three Weevils c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 20: Three Butterflies, a Caterpillar, a Bee, Two Chrysalides, and Three Weevils" is a meticulous watercolor by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist, created between 1575 and 1580. This work showcases Hoefnagel's expertise in naturalism and his fascination with the minute details of the natural world, depicting various insects with incredible accuracy and life-like precision. The insects are carefully arranged within an oval frame on a cream-colored background, highlighting their intricate patterns and textures. Hoefnagel's work was popular among collectors and scholars who appreciated his meticulous depictions of the natural world, making him a pioneer in the field of scientific illustration. This plate is a testament to his dedication to capturing the beauty and complexity of the natural world, solidifying his place in the history of art and natural history.