Plate 78: Ten Insects, Including a Blue Fly

Joris Hoefnagel

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of various insects displayed in an oval composition. The artwork features a collection of different insects meticulously arranged with fine details. The central focus is a large mosquito-like insect pinned upright, surrounded by various smaller insects, each unique in color and shape. To the upper left, a green fly is depicted, while a blue fly is shown to its right. Other insects in the arrangement include beetles with red, black, yellow patterns, and a bright orange body. The insects are positioned symmetrically around the central figure, each carefully rendered to highlight their textures and anatomy. The background is a simple, neutral hue which enhances the detailed and colorful portrayal of the insects.