Whether you love them or hate them, we spend our lives surrounded by insects. This exhibit presents a small selection of insect-related materials from our collections and explores the many ways humans have understood, admired, feared, and relied upon the insect world.
Paintings and jewelry testify to the beauty and symbolism that some insects represent, while field guides and scientific journals reflect our enduring curiosity about the natural world. Images of women tending silkworms invite us to consider the economic and cultural significance of silk production throughout history. Finally, examples of ancient and popular literature reveal how our collective imagination can transform these creatures into symbols of fear and disgust.
Planning Your Visit
Harvard-Yenching Library is open to Harvard-ID holders. Please see Harvard Library's Visitor Access Page or contact us for the most up-to-date information about visiting the library.
Persons with disabilities who would like to request accommodations or have questions about physical access, please contact us.