Maria Sibylla Merian: Changing the Nature of Art and Science

Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717) is a revolutionary artist and naturalist whose life and work inspire contemporary artists and writers. In 2016, Lannoo Publishers republished her masterpiece 'Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium' as a facsimile, examining her pioneering work on insect reproduction, methods, journey, network, and influence on art and science.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2022
Publisher: Lannoo

The captivating artist and naturalist Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717) has recently gained significant attention in the art world. Born in Germany, she later settled in the Netherlands, where her life and work have been extensively studied by entomologists, botanists, and historians. Merian's remarkable journey and contributions have inspired contemporary artists and writers alike. In 2016, Lannoo Publishers, in collaboration with the Koninklijke Bibliotheek, reissued her masterpiece, "Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium," as a facsimile. This beautifully illustrated book brings together the latest scientific knowledge about Merian, exploring her pioneering work on insect reproduction and development, the techniques and materials she employed, her remarkable expedition to Suriname, her extensive network of family, friends, and patrons, and her profound influence on the history of art and science. The authors compare her work to that of early modern and contemporary artists and scientists, shedding light on her remarkable legacy.

Maria Sibylla Merian's life and work have captivated the attention of scholars worldwide, and her contributions continue to inspire artists and writers today. Her pioneering studies on insect reproduction and development, combined with her artistic talent, have made her a revered figure in the history of science and art. The facsimile reissue of "Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium" by Lannoo Publishers and the Koninklijke Bibliotheek is a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable woman.

Merian's journey to Suriname in the late 1600s was a remarkable feat of exploration and scientific discovery. She traveled extensively through the region, documenting her observations of insects and plants in exquisite detail. Her work on the reproductive cycles of insects, in particular, was groundbreaking and has had a lasting impact on the field of entomology.

In addition to her scientific contributions, Merian's artistic talent was equally impressive. She was a skilled illustrator and painter, and her depictions of insects and their habitats have become iconic in the art world. Her detailed and realistic drawings and paintings captured the beauty and complexity of nature, and her work has been celebrated for its scientific accuracy and artistic beauty.

Merian's influence on the history of art and science extends far beyond her own time. Her work has been studied and admired by artists and scientists for centuries, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and scientists. The facsimile reissue of "Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium" is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, providing a glimpse into the life and work of this remarkable woman.

Maria Sibylla Merian's life and work serve as a reminder of the power of creativity and scientific inquiry to inspire and transform our understanding of the world. Her legacy will continue to be celebrated and studied for years to come, and her contributions to the fields of art and science will be remembered as a testament to the human spirit.

Dimension: 260 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789401485333