Le Blessé (The Wounded)

Charles Germain de Saint-Aubin

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of anthropomorphic insects on a platform. The drawing depicts three anthropomorphic butterflies carrying a fourth insect, which appears to be a moth, on a stretcher-like device. Two butterflies are at each end of the stretcher, walking with their small legs, while the moth lies in the middle with wings spread and looks as though it is resting or unconscious. Above, a smaller insect is floating in the air, holding onto an umbrella. The platform on which this scene occurs is detailed with foliage and beards, and it sits suspended in space. The drawing is rendered in fine lines, with attention to the delicate textures of the wings and the organic shapes of the landscape.