Het Vliegende blad Possibly 1778 - 1788

“Het Vliegende Blad,” (The Flying Leaf) is a watercolor by Dutch artist Jan Brandes, created sometime between 1778 and 1788. The detailed drawing of an insect shows Brandes’ meticulous attention to detail. Brandes was known for his depictions of flora and fauna and was one of the most respected insect illustrators of the 18th century. This small-scale artwork showcases his technical prowess and his ability to capture the delicate beauty of nature. The insect, a leaf insect, is depicted in two poses, highlighting its camouflage techniques and the unique characteristics of this intriguing species. The artwork is part of a larger collection of insect illustrations, showcasing Brandes’ contribution to the field of natural history.