Home > Animals > Insects > Butterflies > Related Images
Curtis British Entomology Plate 129
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Curtis British Entomology Plate 129
Hymenoptera: *Andrena kirbii Stephens mss. (Kirbian Andrena Bee), cf. A. flavipes? Date: 1824-39
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23038580
© The Robin Symington Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library
1820s 1830s Butterflies Butterfly Curtis Entomology Hymenoptera Ledipotera Stephens Andrena Flavipes
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Insects
> Butterflies
> Related Images
> Animals
> Insects
> Hymenoptera
> Related Images
> Animals
> Insects
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print is a beautiful example of early 19th century entomological illustration, featuring the Kirbian Andrena Bee (Andrena kirbii), as depicted in Curtis's British Entomology Plate 129. The Hymenoptera order, to which this bee belongs, includes insects with a distinctive exoskeleton characterized by membranous wings covered by tiny scales. Andrena kirbii, described from Stephens' manuscripts, is a species of mining bee, known for creating nest burrows in the ground. The intricate detail and lifelike accuracy of this illustration are a testament to the skill of the natural history artist and the dedication of the entomological community during this period. The bee is depicted in profile, its strikingly patterned abdomen and the delicate hairs on its thorax and legs are rendered with remarkable precision. The artist has also captured the subtle nuances of the bee's wings, showcasing the intricate venation patterns that are essential for taxonomic identification. This plate is part of the extensive collection of John Curtis's British Entomology, which was published between 1824 and 1839. Curtis, a prominent figure in British natural history, was a prolific writer, editor, and publisher, who dedicated his career to documenting the natural world. The plates in this series were produced using the technique of aquatint engraving, a labor-intensive process that allowed for a high level of detail and tonal range. The presence of this Kirbian Andrena Bee in Curtis's British Entomology not only adds to the historical significance of this work but also highlights the importance of bees as vital pollinators in our ecosystems. This print is a reminder of the rich natural history heritage that continues to inspire and inform our understanding of the natural world today.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
