Archive with over 200 photographs by Harold Bastin (1875-1962), a British entomologist, botanist, zoologist, and photographer.

Each possesses Bastin’s extensive annotations on verso identifying the subject, often stating the scientific nomenclature as well as the commonplace names, alongside stages of growth and other information. Some of the photographs bear page and chapter annotations, leading us to believe that a number of these particular images were published in one of Bastin’s books or articles. Nearly all are marked with Bastin’s copyright hand stamp, and some are also signed.

While primarily a scientist, Bastin clearly had a natural understanding for beauty in photographs, perhaps influenced by the subjects he studied so closely. His technical understanding of the medium, and ability to expertly compose images makes for a stunning collection of nature studies, including many which are reminiscent of Karl Blossfeldt’s photographs.

Bastin authored and illustrated numerous books on the fields of entomology and botany, his most notable is entitled Insects. Their Life-Histories and Habits, published by T.C. and E.C. Jack in 1913. Original photographs by Bastin are scarce, and we have only located one collection which resides in the Natural History Museum Library in London.