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Nature Mourant: Bosschaert’s Leaves,
Merian’s Caterpillars
![Caterpillage [Pages 46-54] .pdf](/application/views/scripts/images/fallback-file.png "Caterpillage [Pages 46-54] .pdf")
In this excerpt, Berger analyzes the symbolism in Dutch still life paintings, focusing on the depiction of nature’s fragility and the subtle themes of colonialism and exploitation embedded in these works. He discusses the contrast between the…
Science and Whiteness as Property in the Dutch Atlantic World: Maria Sibylla Merian's Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium (1705)
This article examines how Maria Sibylla Merian’s work Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium, was part of the capitalist exploitation of colonial natural resources. It critiques how the scientific and artistic knowledge created by…
Still Life, Trade, and Truthiness
Chapter 5 of Caterpillage, titled Still Life, Trade, and Truthiness, explores the intersections of commerce, material culture, and artistic representation in 17th-century Dutch still-life painting. Harry Berger examines how Dutch artists depicted…
Title page from "Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium"
A foundational work in entomology and natural history, Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium documents and illustrates the life cycles of Surinamese insects, with detailed depictions of their metamorphosis and host plants. The work represents one of…
Illustration page from "Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium"
A foundational work in entomology and natural history, Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium documents and illustrates the life cycles of Surinamese insects, with detailed depictions of their metamorphosis and host plants. The work represents one of…
Dutch Art in a Global Age
"The seventeenth century has long been considered a ‘golden age’ for Dutch art, fueled by the Dutch Republic’s growth as an economic world power. Nourished by an innovative stock market and burgeoning global trade network, this vibrant economy…
The Currencies of Naturalism in Dutch "Pronk" Still-Life Painting: Luxury, Craft, Envisioned Affluence
This article examines how naturalism in 17th-century Dutch "Pronk" still-life paintings evokes consumerist desire, analyzing the interplay between luxury objects, craftsmanship, and the depiction of affluence.
A Pelican and other Birds near a Pool
This painting showcases a regal assembly of exotic birds in a serene setting. Commissioned for Het Loo, a royal palace, it highlights d'Hondecoeter's mastery in rendering avian subjects with lifelike detail.
Four Studies of Cockatoos
This drawing features studies of four cockatoos, showcasing Jan Weenix's detailed observation of exotic birds. Such exotic specimens were likely drawn from menageries and aviaries, reflecting the 17th-century European fascination with rare and…
Park with Country House
This painting presents a park scene viewed from a terrace adorned with musical instruments and exotic flora. The composition includes human figures, animals, and architectural elements, reflecting the opulence of 17th-century Dutch estates.