Planten, rupsen en insecten 1710 - 1774

This etching, made by Jacob l'Admiral in the 18th century, presents us with a study of plants, caterpillars and insects. At its heart lies the motif of natural metamorphosis. Consider the caterpillar, for instance. Since antiquity, it has appeared as a symbol of transformation and resurrection, shedding its earthly form to take flight as a butterfly. The butterfly is a symbol that reappears across cultures, from ancient Greek depictions of Psyche with butterfly wings, symbolizing the soul, to Dutch vanitas paintings where butterflies remind us of the transience of life. Here, the artist presents this cycle of decay and renewal with a naturalist's eye. But we must not ignore the emotional resonance. The human psyche has long been fascinated by the transformative power of nature, as the life cycle from humble caterpillar to soaring moth touches something primal within us. It is this dance of life, death, and rebirth, that surfaces again and again throughout history, reminding us of our own fleeting existence, and of the enduring power of renewal.