Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Telopea speciosissima [waratah] (c. 1806)

Telopea speciosissima [waratah] (c. 1806)

Watercolour

Purchased from Mrs Alsop in 1911

PXC 304/206

This waratah was painted by John William Lewin, the colony’s first professional artist. It is one of the earlier depictions of this striking flower and includes pencil dissections and diagnostic details.


The Most Beautiful & Rare Moths

By John William Lewin

"Every thing in Natural History is contrary to our known knowledge in England and in fact I was greatly puzzled to find any [caterpillars] myself for a great while, not knowing their manners … but I have got such an insight into their manners that I have no doubt but that I shall procure you some of the most beautiful and rare moths."

JOHN LEWIN TO DRU DRURY, 1803