Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus) and a False Coral Snake (Anilius scytale) - Maria Sibylla Merian
Archival giclée
Frames arrive ready to hang
Secure checkout
Made to order
Description
A hand-coloured engraving by Maria Sibylla Merian showing a spectacled caiman and a false coral snake. The detailed illustration showcases Merian's skill as a naturalist and artist.
This print by Maria Sibylla Merian depicts a spectacled caiman and a false coral snake. Merian was a naturalist and scientific illustrator, known for her detailed depictions of insects and plants. Her work was notable for its accuracy and artistic quality, contributing significantly to the fields of entomology and botany. She was among the first to document the life cycles of insects through direct observation. In this image, the caiman is shown with a snake wrapped around its body and head. The artist's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the reptile's scales and the snake's patterned skin. The composition is carefully arranged to showcase the interaction between the two animals, set against a plain background that allows the specimens to take centre stage. The colours are applied with precision, enhancing the realism of the scene. Merian's illustrations combine scientific observation with artistic skill, making them valuable both as scientific records and as works of art.
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.
Shipping
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
Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus) and a False Coral Snake (Anilius scytale) - 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.
Why Choose Us ?
Damage-free delivery guarantee
Fast Shipping
Museum-Quality Materials
You May Also Like

