Lycosa Maculata and Lycosa Waglerii - Framed Art by Carl Wilhelm Hahn

Discover an extraordinary original hand tinted engraving from 1820 by renowned German zoologist and natural history illustrator Carl Wilhelm Hahn. This beautifully detailed piece features Lycosa maculata and Lycosa waglerii, illustrated for Hahn’s influential publication Monographia Aranearum = Monographie der Spinnen, the first German monograph devoted entirely to spiders.

About the Artwork

This authentic 19th century engraving measures approximately 9.75 x 7.75 inches and displays Hahn’s meticulous hand coloring and careful observation. Both spiders depicted have undergone significant taxonomic revision since Hahn’s time, making this artwork an important historical record of early arachnid classification.

Lycosa maculata, as originally illustrated by Hahn in 1822, is no longer an accepted scientific name. It is now considered a synonym associated with a species in a different wolf spider genus, most likely Arctosa maculata. The name Lycosa maculata itself was later found to be preoccupied and reassigned in modern taxonomy.

Lycosa waglerii, also introduced by Hahn in 1822, has been reclassified as Pardosa wagleri, now an accepted species in the genus Pardosa. Pardosa wagleri is recognized for its broad distribution across Europe, Turkey, the Caucasus, Russia, and Central Asia.

Both spiders belong to the wolf spider family Lycosidae, known for strong bodies, excellent vision, and active hunting behavior. Wolf spiders do not spin webs to capture prey but instead chase them with speed and precision. Their venom is mild and not medically significant to humans, though they may bite if threatened.

Hahn’s depiction of these species captures a moment when scientific understanding of spiders was rapidly evolving. His illustrations provided foundational references for early arachnologists and remain valued for both artistic beauty and historical importance.

The engraving is presented in an ornate gold frame measuring approximately 21.25 x 17.25 inches, complete with a secure hanging apparatus. A certificate of authenticity is included.

About Carl Wilhelm Hahn

Carl Wilhelm Hahn, a German zoologist and natural history illustrator, made enduring contributions to early 19th century natural science. Born in Nuremberg, Hahn devoted his life to studying and documenting European wildlife, combining meticulous observation with a distinctive artistic style.

He is especially celebrated for his pioneering work in arachnology and entomology. Monographie der Spinnen introduced numerous species descriptions still recognized today and established a foundation for future spider research in Germany. Beyond arachnids, Hahn also produced elegant bird illustrations known for their accuracy, character, and attention to detail.

Hahn’s work remains treasured for its rare blend of science and artistry. Each piece reflects the curiosity and dedication of a naturalist working at a formative moment in zoological history, and his illustrations continue to shape the modern appreciation of natural history art.

This combined Lycosa maculata and Lycosa waglerii engraving is a remarkable opportunity to own an original example of early spider illustration and zoological history. This work of art is even more impressive in person!

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