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Half height banner for Maria Merian exhibition, showing a butterfly
This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.
JOHN SWAMMERDAM (1637-80)

The Book of nature : or the history of insects

1758

RCIN 1057035

The Dutch scientist Jan Swammerdam was one of the first researchers to study insect metamorphosis. Using the recently invented microscope, he proved that metamorphosis was the life cycle of a single insect rather than the rebirth of different animals. Swammerdam’s 'Historia Insectorum Generalis' (1669) was known to Merian. This English translation of the 'Historia', published in 1758, was edited by the influential botanist Sir John Hill, who owned the Merian drawings in the Royal Collection before they were acquired by George III.

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.