Vlinders, rups en cocon 1710 - 1774

Editor: Here we have "Vlinders, rups en cocon," which translates to Butterflies, Caterpillar and Cocoon, by Jacob l'Admiral II, made sometime between 1710 and 1774. It's an engraving, currently held in the Rijksmuseum. There's something so delicate about the lines... almost fragile. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: Fragile is a wonderful word for it. I’m struck by the artist's deep fascination with the natural world, the way he captures each stage of the butterfly's life cycle in such meticulous detail. It’s almost meditative, don't you think? As though the artist were seeking some deeper truth in these humble creatures. It’s Baroque, yet also leans towards scientific observation. Do you get a sense of that? Editor: Absolutely. It's scientific but beautiful at the same time. It almost feels allegorical… like a metaphor for transformation. Curator: Precisely! The Baroque loved a good metaphor, often laced with mortality. The print captures this incredible moment of metamorphosis; one form ceasing and another being born. Do you feel any sense of movement or stillness looking at the print? Editor: Stillness, I think. A sort of quiet observation, appropriate for the subject matter. What I appreciate about the piece is the beauty, and the level of skill employed here. There’s something deeply satisfying about observing such skillful representation. Curator: Indeed! Perhaps that skill is what brings the transformation to life. I suppose what stays with me is its patient celebration of the magic of nature, inviting us to reflect on our own transformations. Editor: Definitely. I’ll never look at a butterfly the same way.