South American smallhead worm lizard, iguana or East Indian tree lizard and pipefish after 1701

This illustration, created by the renowned German naturalist and artist Maria Sibylla Merian, depicts a South American smallhead worm lizard, an iguana, and an East Indian tree lizard. Merian, who specialized in depicting insects and plants, meticulously captured the details of each creature in this watercolor, showcasing her keen eye for observation. The work, which dates back to the early 18th century, exemplifies Merian’s contribution to the scientific illustration movement, where art served to document and understand the natural world. This piece is currently housed in the Städel Museum, highlighting the significance of her work in art history.