Otto Marseus van Schrieck – Plants and Insects Mauritshuis

The composition presents a densely packed still life arrangement set within a shadowed woodland environment. The foreground is dominated by a tangle of branches, foliage, and various fauna, all rendered with meticulous detail. A dark, earthy palette prevails, punctuated by the subtle hues of the insects and plants.
Here we see a complex interplay between organic forms. Numerous butterflies – some white, others displaying intricate patterns – are scattered throughout the scene, hovering near or resting on the vegetation. Several moths are also present, their wings spread in various positions. A lizard is positioned prominently near the base of the composition, its form partially obscured by leaves and debris. A snake coils amongst the branches, adding a layer of potential threat to the otherwise serene depiction of nature.
The artist has included other elements that contribute to the overall sense of abundance and naturalism: a peacock feather lies on the ground, alongside a snail shell and what appears to be a discarded seed pod or fruit. The background is deliberately obscured by darkness, with only glimpses of a distant landscape visible through an opening in the trees – a suggestion of rolling hills beneath a cloudy sky.
The subtexts within this work are layered. The inclusion of insects, particularly butterflies and moths, often carries symbolic weight in historical art; they can represent transformation, fragility, or the fleeting nature of beauty. The snake, traditionally associated with temptation and danger, introduces an element of unease and potential mortality into the scene. The peacock feather, a symbol of vanity and splendor, contrasts with the more humble elements surrounding it.
The overall effect is one of intense observation and appreciation for the natural world, but also hints at a deeper contemplation on themes of life, death, and the delicate balance within an ecosystem. The artist’s skill lies in creating a visually rich and conceptually complex arrangement that invites prolonged scrutiny and multiple interpretations.