11386 George Shaw (1751–1813) – Entomological Study of Flour Mites – Engraving (1805)
"Acarus" illustrates the species Acarus siro, commonly known as the flour mite or grain mite. The plate features two large-scale anatomical studies of the arachnid, displaying one specimen from a dorsal view and the other from a ventral perspective to highlight its jointed legs and numerous sensory hairs or setae. These highly magnified diagrams were intended to document the microscopic morphology of common pests found in stored food products. This engraving was published in London on October 1, 1805, by G. Kearsley as part of General Zoology, or Systematic Natural History, a comprehensive multi-volume survey of the animal kingdom.
George Shaw was an eminent English botanist and zoologist who served as the keeper of the Natural History Department at the British Museum. A co-founder of the Linnean Society, he dedicated his professional life to the formal description and classification of various species, including many newly discovered specimens arriving from global maritime expeditions. His systematic approach and prolific publications provided a critical scientific foundation for nineteenth-century zoology. Shaw was instrumental in introducing countless species to the European scientific community through his rigorous and highly detailed descriptive works.
Artist or Maker: George Shaw.
Dimensions: Approximately 21 cm x 13 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: (1805).
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
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