Yan Bingwu (Chinese, B. 1954) & Yang Wenqing (Chinese, B. 1951) "Ebony Jewelwing" Signed lower left. Watercolor on Silk/Rice Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the 33c Ebony Jewelwing Classic Collection Series stamp issued October 1, 1999. The male Ebony Jewelwing -- or black-winged damselfly -- is easily identified by its solid black wings, while the female's wings are much lighter in color, or sometimes transparent. The membranous, net-veined wings lend the Ebony Jewelwing its delicate appearance. Unlike dragonflies that rest with their wings outstretched, jewelwings are identified by the way their wings fold together over their backs. The jewelwing's front and hind wings are similar in shape and size -- another important characteristic of these unique creatures. Ebony Jewelwings inhabit flowing streams and rivers, where they feed on mosquitoes, gnats, midges and other insects. Sweeping down on prey in a manner similar to that of hawks, jewelwings seize insects with their legs before tearing them apart with their powerful jaws. Ebony Jewelwings lay their eggs on or near water. The nymphs of the Ebony Jewelwing are aquatic, and breathe by means of gills located at the end of the abdomen. The gills are also used to propel the nymphs through the water, where they feed on various species of insect larvae. Nymphs are beneficial to the stream ecosystem, providing an important food source for fish and birds. Image Size: 13.5 x 11.5 in. Overall Size: 14.25 x 12.25 in. Unframed. (B16507)