Along with pteridomania, (the craze for ferns), the 19th century trend for vivariums, or enclosed glass containers containing soil, plants and insects, was encouraged by the public's interest in science and exploration. This gorgeous illustration shows a cross section of this "place for life" complete with butterflies, dragonflies, moths, caterpillars, nymphs, ferns, flora, pondwater, soil and rocks. The entire original vintage bookplate is reproduced, framed with a black and silver beaded frame and arrives ready to hang.