Sheet with Six Beetles, Pieter Holsteyn (I), c. 1620 - c. 1662

paper, h 160mm × w 207mm More details

Pieter Holsteyn I, together with his son, produced many drawings of animals, especially birds and insects. On this sheet he grouped various species of beetles, including a black musk beetle and a large cockchafer. Their ‘armour’ glimmers like jewels, and by providing even the smallest insect with a light-grey cast shadow, the artist created a strong sense of space.