Sphinx Moth, Larva, Pupa, and Flower, 1705-1771, After Maria Sibylla Merian; Engraver: Joseph Mulder, German, 1647-1717, 15 x 10 3/4 in. (38.1 x 27.31 cm) (sheet), Hand-colored etching and engraving, Netherlands, 18th century, The Giant Sphinx Moth depicted at bottom right is Cocytius antaeus (Drury), shown with its larva and pupa. The adult feeds through its long, tubular proboscis, which is formed from two parts. Merian drew the larva feeding on a plant known as the Bellyache Bush, because all parts of the plant are poisonous, particularly the seeds. Marian noted that the leaves of this plant were used for 'purgatives and for enemas.'
Keywords:
Sphinx Moth, Larva, Pupa, Flower, 1705-1771, Maria Sibylla Merian, Engraver, Joseph Mulder, German, 1647-1717, sheet, Hand-colored etching, engraving, Netherlands, 18th century, Giant Sphinx Moth depicted, bottom right, Cocytius antaeus, Drury, shown, larva, pupa, adult feeds, long, tubular proboscis, formed, two parts, Merian drew, larva feeding, plant, Bellyache Bush, parts, plant, poisonous, particularly, seeds, Marian noted, leaves, plant, purgatives, enemas.'
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