A Moth 1706 - 1769

This delicate watercolor of a moth is by Nicolaas Struyk and can be found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. At first glance, we see a study in muted tones, dominated by browns, creams, and hints of pink, meticulously applied to capture the moth's delicate form. Struyk's careful brushstrokes create a sense of volume and texture in the moth's body and wings. The composition, while simple, invites us to contemplate the relationship between the natural world and its representation. In the 18th century, such detailed studies of insects reflected a growing interest in scientific observation and classification. The moth, with its symmetrical wings and complex patterns, becomes a subject of both aesthetic and scientific inquiry. The artist’s attention to detail transforms the insect into more than just a natural specimen. It serves as a lens through which to examine our own fascination with the intricacies of the natural world.