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Curtis British Entomology Plate 18
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Curtis British Entomology Plate 18
Diptera: Empis borealis (Northern Empis) [Plant: Taxus baccata (Yew Tree)] Date: 1824-39
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Media ID 23038228
© The Robin Symington Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library
1820s 1830s Baccata Borealis Butterflies Butterfly Curtis Diptera Entomology Ledipotera Taxus
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This image is a rare glimpse into the natural world of the 1820s and 1830s, as depicted in John Curtis's British Entomology Plate 18. The plate features the Northern Empis (Empis borealis), a fly belonging to the family Empididae, also known as horse-flies or snakeflies. The fly is shown delicately perched on the leaves of a Yew Tree (Taxus baccata), its intricate wings spread wide. Empis flies are characterized by their long, slender bodies and distinctive clear wings with dark veins. They are agile hunters, using their long legs to leap and capture small insects in mid-air. The Northern Empis is a common species found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, making it a familiar sight in many natural habitats. The Yew Tree, on the other hand, is a fascinating plant with a rich history and symbolic significance. The tree is evergreen, with small, red, berry-like seeds that are highly toxic. Yew trees have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for the treatment of heart conditions. The tree is also revered for its longevity, with some specimens living for over a thousand years. This beautiful and intricate print is a testament to the meticulous work of John Curtis, a prominent English botanist and entomologist of the 19th century. Curtis's British Entomology was a groundbreaking publication, featuring over 1,000 plates and documenting a wide range of insects, including flies, beetles, bees, and butterflies. The plates were produced using the latest techniques of the time, including lithography, which allowed for high-quality, detailed images. This image offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world of the past, showcasing the beauty and intricacy of both the Northern Empis and the Yew Tree. It is a reminder of the importance of documenting and preserving the natural world, and the role that science plays in deepening our understanding of the natural world around us.
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