Portret van Maria Sibylla Merian 1708 - 1780

This is Jacob Houbraken's portrait of Maria Sibylla Merian, an engraving now held at the Rijksmuseum. Observe how Merian is framed by symbols that speak to her life's work. The most salient of these motifs is the image of the butterfly and foliage, which has its roots in ancient metamorphosis myths symbolizing transformation and rebirth. This motif echoes in various forms across cultures and through time. We find it in the myth of Psyche, whose name means 'soul' and 'butterfly,' and who undergoes trials before her union with Eros. Just as Psyche is transformed, so too is the caterpillar reborn as a butterfly. But here, the butterfly is not merely a symbol of transformation, it is a testament to Merian’s meticulous observation and artistic documentation. The enduring power of this image lies in its ability to tap into our collective memory. Merian’s butterflies engage us on a deeply subconscious level, reminding us of nature's cycles and our own potential for transformation. The butterfly, once a symbol of the soul's journey, returns to us as a symbol of scientific inquiry.