1-158-322 - Oxford Science Archive/Heritage Images

Cochineal and lac insects, c1850. Varnish and scarlet dye are derived from the lac insect native to parts of Asia, and a red colour from the cochineal insect of South America. Around the central image are vignettes of the collection and various uses of the insects, from shellac for varnish, sealing wax and japanning tinware, to dyes for textiles and wallpaper. From Graphic Illustrations of Animals and Their Utility to Man. (London, c1850).