Levon Biss' photographs reveal the unexpected and often breathtaking beauty of insects and the many intricate evolutionary adaptations to their form – what entomologists call microsculpture. Using optical microscopes and camera lenses, Biss captures the ridges, pits and engraved meshes that make up the unique shapes and colours of insects.

After selecting specimens from the Oxford University Museum of Natural History's vast collection of over five million insects, Biss carefully mounts and photographs the insects at high magnification, capturing some of the most vibrant and intense colours in nature.

See more of Biss’s stunning photography and how documenting the animal world has resulted in some of humankind’s most awe-inspiring art, science and sound recordings at Animals: Art, Science and Sound. Open until 28 August 2023.

Acquired by the Library. Created in collaboration with the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Image: Jewel Longhorn Beetle © Levon Biss