Passion for insects spans centuries and continentsーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Maria Sibila Merian: German-born naturalist, scientific illustrator, and entomologist (1647-1717).
• Metamorphosis insectorum surinamensium: Merian’s groundbreaking illustrated work on the insects of Suriname, published in 1705.
• Entomology: The scientific study of insects.
• Menaus Blue Morpho: A species of butterfly ( Morpho menelaus ) frequently depicted in Merian’s work.
• Shi Yuji (Shiraishi): Japanese entomology enthusiast and collector who retraced Merian’s steps in Suriname.

Maria Sibila Merian and the Pursuit of Insect Beauty: A Journey to Suriname

This narrative details the life and work of Maria Sibila Merian, a 17th-century pioneer in entomology and scientific illustration, and the modern-day journey of Shi Yuji, a Japanese enthusiast, to connect with her legacy in Suriname. Merian, born in Germany in 1647, defied societal expectations by pursuing scientific study – a field often associated with witchcraft for women at the time – and dedicating herself to the detailed observation and artistic representation of insects.

Merian’s Pioneering Work in Suriname

In 1699, at the age of 52, Merian undertook a challenging three-month voyage to Suriname, a South American country rich in tropical biodiversity. Over two years, she meticulously documented the insects of the region, focusing on their life cycles – particularly the process of metamorphosis from caterpillar to pupa to adult. Her resulting publication, Metamorphosis insectorum surinamensium (1705), was revolutionary for its time. It presented accurate and detailed illustrations of insects and their host plants, showcasing observations that were ahead of their time in a field lacking comprehensive understanding. The work clearly illustrated the complete life cycles of insects, a novel approach for the era.

Shi Yuji’s Lifelong Pursuit

Shi Yuji, an 80-year-old amateur entomologist and avid book collector, harbored a lifelong dream of experiencing Suriname through Merian’s eyes. He finally acquired a copy of the 1726 third edition of Metamorphosis insectorum surinamensium – a rare volume with only a handful of copies in Japan – and subsequently published a Japanese translation, donating it to public libraries nationwide. Driven by a desire to understand the source of Merian’s inspiration, he embarked on a journey to Suriname in August of the previous year. As Shiraishi stated, “I feel that if I visit Surinom in person, I might be able to grasp even a small part of what she felt.”

The Search for Merian’s Insects

Shiraishi’s ten-day expedition, facilitated by government permission and local researchers, focused on locating the insects Merian had documented centuries earlier. The initial days yielded limited results – a single moth and a few small butterflies. However, venturing into the dense jungles of Fredburg, approximately 100 km southwest of the capital, proved more fruitful. After three days of searching, Shiraishi successfully identified a male Menaus morpho butterfly, a species prominently featured in Merian’s illustrations. The Menaus blue morpho is characterized by its impressive wingspan, reaching up to 10 cm. Shiraishi expressed his elation, stating, “I really have no words. I’m just so happy.”

Connecting with the Past and Present

Shiraishi’s journey also included a visit to a former plantation housing a museum dedicated to Suriname’s colonial history, where some of Merian’s original artwork is preserved. Bass Spec, the museum owner, expressed his appreciation for Shiraishi’s dedication, noting he was “the most farthest enthusiast to come to.” Shiraishi’s experience reinforced his admiration for Merian’s remarkable work and the challenges she overcame. He reflected, “This journey made me realize once again just how remarkable Marian truly was.”

Legacy and Exhibition

Upon returning to Japan, Shiraishi curated an exhibition showcasing Merian’s illustrations alongside specimens of the insects he collected in Suriname. This exhibition, held at the Food and Agriculture Museum in Tokyo until the end of March, highlights the enduring beauty and scientific significance of Merian’s work. The exhibition’s appeal lies in the “romantic” connection between the historical artwork and the living specimens, emphasizing a timeless appreciation for the natural world. Shiraishi’s efforts have contributed to a renewed interest in Merian’s legacy and the importance of entomological study. He collected approximately 10 species of butterflies and moths during his fieldwork, most of which are now part of the National Zoological Collection of Surinam.

Conclusion

The story of Maria Sibila Merian and Shi Yuji demonstrates the enduring power of scientific curiosity and artistic passion. Merian’s groundbreaking work challenged societal norms and laid the foundation for modern entomology, while Shiraishi’s dedication exemplifies the lasting impact of her legacy. His journey to Suriname underscores the importance of connecting with the past to appreciate the present and inspire future generations to explore and protect the natural world. Shiraishi’s final sentiment encapsulates this spirit: “I’m full of curiosity and I don’t give up easily. If you keep wishing for something long enough, it will happen someday.”