Moth and three butterflies 1646

Wenceslaus Hollar's "Moth and three butterflies," a 1646 etching, exemplifies his detailed and precise style. This print showcases four insects - a large moth with patterned wings and a prominent segmented body, and three butterflies, each with unique markings. Hollar's meticulous rendering of the insects' textures and intricate patterns is evident in the fine lines of the etching. The composition is simple, yet effective, with the insects arranged symmetrically against a light background, enhancing their visual impact. This artwork, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases Hollar's ability to capture the beauty and complexity of nature through the medium of printmaking.