Plate 67: Large White and Small White Butterfly Caterpillars, Hornworm Caterpillar, Broom Moth Caterpillar, and Others c. 1575 - 1580

"Plate 67: Large White and Small White Butterfly Caterpillars, Hornworm Caterpillar, Broom Moth Caterpillar, and Others" is a meticulous watercolor illustration by Joris Hoefnagel, created around 1575-1580. It depicts a diverse array of caterpillars, each rendered with remarkable detail and accuracy. The insects are arranged on a single branch, showcasing their varied colors, patterns, and shapes. Hoefnagel, renowned for his precise and naturalistic depictions, was a master of scientific illustration. This artwork, part of his larger series of "Natural Histories", exemplifies the early modern fascination with the natural world and the burgeoning field of scientific observation.