Lithograph of European Butterflies – Admirals, Tortoiseshells and Peacocks, 1863
€ 120
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1863
Sheet size
34.8 × 25.9 cm (13.7 × 10.2 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13836-96
Condition
Good condition. The colors are vibrant and well-preserved, with only minimal toning due to age. Light foxing is present but confined to the margins - does not detract from the central illustration. Professionally mounted on a cream-colored mat.
About this sheet
This vibrant 19th-century hand-colored lithograph showcases a stunning variety of European butterflies, including the Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta), Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae), and Peacock Butterfly (Aglais io), perched gracefully on flowering plants. The intricate details of their wings are beautifully rendered, featuring rich reds, blues, yellows, and blacks, which vividly contrast with the greenery of their habitat.
The composition also includes caterpillars and chrysalises, highlighting the complete metamorphic life cycle of these iconic butterfly species. The flora depicted in the background emphasizes the butterflies' ecological role and dependence on specific host plants, making this both an artistic and scientifically significant work.
The artist's attention to detail and mastery of hand-coloring techniques make this lithograph a timeless representation of 19th-century natural history art, appealing to both collectors and enthusiasts of entomology and botany.
Condition Report: The colors remain rich and vibrant, with minimal fading. Light toning and occasional foxing are visible, mostly confined to the margins, leaving the central illustration unaffected. Professionally mounted on a cream-colored mat with yellow decorative borders, this lithograph is ready for framing or display.
This exquisite piece would be an excellent addition to any collection of natural history prints, offering both visual charm and scientific intrigue.
