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Archive: March 2025 (2 Posts)

A Close Look at Caterpillars: Maria Merian’s Metamorphosis Meets Modern Science

Posted by: Amelia Parks

Pioneering 17th century natural scientist, artist, and engraver Maria Sibylla Merian traveled to Suriname to observe and collect insect specimens. In 1705, she published a book, Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium (Metamorphosis of Surinamese Insects) with large, vibrantly colored illustrations of exotic species that captivated natural history enthusiasts. Read about how a trans-disciplinary team from Preservation Research and Testing, Rare Books and Manuscripts and an Einstein Fellow worked together to examine the book and discuss research questions and goals.