Plate 68: Leafy Spurge Hawkmoth Caterpillar, Mullein Moth Caterpillar, and Other Caterpillars c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 68: Leafy Spurge Hawkmoth Caterpillar, Mullein Moth Caterpillar, and Other Caterpillars" is a watercolor painting by Joris Hoefnagel, a renowned Flemish artist known for his meticulous depictions of natural history. Dated c. 1575-1580, this work is a testament to Hoefnagel's keen eye for detail and his passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world. The artwork showcases a collection of caterpillars, each rendered with remarkable precision, showcasing their unique physical characteristics. Hoefnagel's meticulous detail and the selection of various caterpillars, including the Leafy Spurge Hawkmoth and the Mullein Moth, exemplify his contribution to the scientific study of insects during this period. This intricate study of insect life exemplifies a shift toward scientific observation in art during the Renaissance.