Thomas Staples.Upper covers and spines.Both covers and spine of each volumes are identically blocked in gold. Two gold fillets are blocked on the borders. The main block shows a "teacher" insect; seated on a mound at the centre. His left "hand" holds an open book on his left thigh; his right "hand" is upraised; making a point. The "teacher" is dressed in knee breeches and stockings; with a waistcoat; a neck cloth; and a long-tailed coat. Two other books are on the ground in front of him. Around and above the "teacher"; various other insects are gathered listening - on foliage to the left; and on branches on the right. Above the "teacher" insect; near the centre head; a spider's web; with a spider in the middle; straddles the foliage to left and right. Signed " / Staples Sc. / " in gold at the base of the ground; near the two books. A quotation is blocked at the base: " / He filled their listening ears with wondrous things / ". The spines are blocked in gold and relief. From the head downwards; the decoration is: two gold fillets; the words: " / First [Second; Third] Series. / "; a plant is blocked up the spine; with a butterfly blocked near the head; and two large leaves underneath; the title: " / Episodes/ of / Insect / Life / " are blocked in relief in fanciful letters within the two leaves; a caterpillar is blocked on a stem near the tail. Volume 3 has: " / Reeve & Co. / " blocked in gold near the tail; two gold fillets blocked at the tail. The design is by Thomas Staples.London; 1849-1851.From. Episodes of Insect Life.C. 109. c. 4London; British Library.