English Moths on Oak – Hand-Colored Insect Engraving, Eleazar Albin 1720
This hand-colored copper engraving was published in London in 1720 as part of A Natural History of English Insects by Eleazar Albin, one of the earliest systematic studies of British entomology. The plate illustrates moths and caterpillars shown at different stages of development, arranged around oak foliage. Albin’s method of depicting insects in direct association with their host plants was highly innovative and reflects careful field observation.
The plate is dedicated “To the Right Noble The Marquis of Tullibardine,” a Scottish nobleman and member of the powerful Murray family. Such dedications reflect the aristocratic patronage that supported scientific publishing in early 18th-century Britain.
The insects shown are moths and larvae associated with oak trees, likely early observations of oak-feeding species within the geometrid and noctuid families. The host plant depicted is oak (Quercus). The balanced composition, restrained coloring, and generous negative space give the engraving a refined decorative quality.
This is an original 18th-century engraving with original hand coloring, not a later reproduction.
Condition Light to moderate, even age-related toning consistent with early 18th-century paper. Minor edge wear from original binding. Original hand coloring remains well preserved.
Framing tips Frame in dark walnut or ebonized wood with a generous ivory or soft cream mat to complement the aged paper. For a lighter interior, pale oak or natural wood with a museum-white mat works beautifully. UV-protective glazing is recommended. Sold unframed.
Keywords Eleazar Albin, English insects, antique insect print, entomology engraving, hand colored engraving, Georgian natural history, 18th century print, British insects, moth engraving, caterpillar illustration, oak leaves, Quercus, woodland insects, botanical entomology, antique scientific illustration, natural history art, interior designer wall art, decorative antique print, London 1720, early entomology, collector print
Technique: Copper engraving with original hand coloring Maker: Eleazar Albin, London, 1720
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.