Musa paradisiaca - Maria Sibylla Merian
Archival giclée
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Description
A detailed botanical and entomological study by Maria Sibylla Merian, featuring the plant Musa paradisiaca and its associated insect life.
This plate originates from Maria Sibylla Merian's seminal work, Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium, published in 1705. Merian travelled to the Dutch colony of Suriname in 1699, accompanied by her daughter, to document the life cycles of insects in their natural environment. This expedition was unusual for the period, as it involved a woman travelling independently to conduct scientific research.
The composition displays a branch of the plant, identified by Merian as Musa paradisiaca, alongside various stages of insect development. Merian rejected the common practice of depicting specimens in isolation. Instead, she presented the plant and the insects feeding upon it as a unified ecological system. Her approach combined precise botanical observation with an interest in entomology, resulting in images that are both scientifically rigorous and aesthetically balanced.
Technically, the work employs fine etching and engraving lines, finished with hand-applied watercolour. The colour palette remains restrained, focusing on the natural tones of the foliage and the specific markings of the insects. The cross-section of the fruit reveals the internal structure, demonstrating Merian's attention to anatomical detail. This print captures the intersection of art and natural history, reflecting the curiosity of the early eighteenth century regarding the flora and fauna of the Americas. The clarity of the line work and the careful arrangement of the subjects provide a clear view of the biological interactions observed by the artist during her time in Suriname.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
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We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Musa paradisiaca - Maria Sibylla Merian
Artist Biography
Maria Sibylla Merian
Merian's artistic approach combined scientific accuracy with aesthetic appeal. Her detailed watercolours and engravings depicted insects alongside their host plants, creating visually arresting compositions. She meticulously documented the stages of insect development, from egg to larva to pupa to adult, providing valuable insights into entomology. Her magnum opus, *Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium*, showcased the biodiversity of Suriname and challenged prevailing scientific views.
Today, Merian's work appeals to collectors who appreciate the intersection of art and science. Her prints offer a glimpse into a world of natural wonders, rendered with precision and artistry. Her images possess both historical and aesthetic value, making them a striking addition to any collection. They are a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the natural world, as seen through the eyes of a remarkable woman.
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