PIETER WITHOOS | Studies of insects, including two long-horned beetles (Batocera octomaculata and Eurycephalus maxillosus), a nine-spotted moth (Amata phegea), a yellow-shell butterfly (Camptogramma bilineata) and a bumblebee (Bombus hortorum)

Hinged to the mount at the upper margin. Overall in excellent condition. There is a small crease/defect in the paper, at the upper margin, otherwise sheet is relatively free from staining. Colours remain strong and vibrant.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Pieter Withoos was a member of an extensive family of artists, all of whom specialized in natural history subjects, satisfying the apparently limitless demand for works of this type in 17th and 18th century Holland. His father, Matthias, was famous for his paintings of plants and animals; Pieter, his sister Alida and their two less well-known siblings all concentrated on the production of highly accomplished watercolours depicting birds, animals, plants and, as in the case of this fine sheet, insects.