About this sheet
Small-Format Butterfly Engravings with Botanical Studies, 1835
This elegant set of six hand-colored butterfly engravings originates from the celebrated Victorian scientific publication The Naturalist’s Library, edited by the Scottish naturalist Sir William Jardine and published in Edinburgh beginning in 1835. The plates were engraved by the renowned Scottish engraver William Home Lizars, whose refined line work and delicate hand-coloring made the series one of the most admired illustrated natural history publications of the 19th century.
The present group features a particularly decorative selection of butterfly studies combined with graceful botanical elements. Species depicted include Hipparchia Iphis, Lycaena Sheretes, Pontia Ausonia, Lycaena Rubi, Hipparchia Semele, and Lycaena Quercus. Each plate is identified with Roman numeral plate numbers and elegant cursive captions beneath the illustrations, reflecting the refined presentation style typical of Jardine’s publications.
The engravings combine scientific observation with remarkable decorative appeal. Rich blue, amber, ivory, olive, and earthy brown tones create a beautifully balanced group well suited to both traditional and contemporary interiors. Several plates incorporate delicate grasses, leaves, and flowering stems that soften the scientific compositions and enhance their visual elegance. The contrast between the jewel-like butterfly wings and the restrained cream backgrounds gives the works a timeless and sophisticated appearance.
The Naturalist’s Library became one of the most influential illustrated scientific series of the Victorian era, admired not only by scholars and collectors but also by a growing middle-class audience fascinated by natural history. These engravings were printed from the original engraved copper or steel plates prepared for the early editions of the work, preserving the crisp detail and subtle hand-coloring characteristic of Lizars’ workshop.
Their intimate cabinet-size format makes them especially suitable for grouped display. Arranged together in matching dark walnut, black lacquer, or gilt frames with wide ivory mats, the set creates an elegant museum-style presentation while maintaining a refined and understated scale.
Condition: Good antique condition overall, with gentle age-related toning and light handling wear consistent with age. Colors remain attractive and well preserved. Minor occasional spotting or faint surface wear may be present. The prints display beautifully.
Dimensions: Approximately 10.5 x 17.5 cm each (sheet size).
Note: These prints are original antique engravings, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The pieces are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Technique: Original hand-colored engravings
Maker: William Home Lizars after Sir William Jardine, Edinburgh, circa 1835
