Lacewing & Erycina Butterflies (Cethosia cyane, Erycina hypsenina) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving, Exotic Butterflies (1835)

Lacewing & Erycina: Fiery Orange and Electric Blue in Tropical Contrast

This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving depicts two visually captivating tropical butterflies: Cethosia cyane, commonly known as the Lacewing butterfly, and Erycina hypsenina, a striking species characterized by its deep brown wings accented with vivid blue markings. The plate forms part of Exotic Butterflies, produced under the scientific direction of Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet. On the original plate, these species appear under the historical names Nymphalis veranes and Nymphalis hypsenina.

Arranged in a balanced vertical composition against a clean ground, the two specimens highlight the diversity of tropical Lepidoptera through a powerful contrast of color and structure. The engraving reflects the refined visual language of nineteenth-century natural history illustration, where scientific precision and decorative appeal were closely aligned.

The combination of warm orange and golden tones with deep brown and luminous blue accents gives this engraving a strong decorative identity. It stands out as a refined piece of antique butterfly wall art, ideal for interiors seeking colour contrast, rhythm, and natural history elegance.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The upper butterfly, Cethosia cyane, displays an intense palette of fiery orange and amber tones, bordered by darker brown edges and punctuated by lighter spots. The scalloped wing margins and intricate patterning create a lively, almost flame-like visual rhythm that draws the eye outward.

Below, Erycina hypsenina introduces a contrasting aesthetic defined by deep chocolate-brown wings highlighted with vivid electric blue bands and spots. This cooler palette provides a dramatic counterbalance to the warmth above, creating a visually engaging interplay between intensity and depth.

About the Species

Butterflies of the genus Cethosia, often referred to as lacewings, were particularly admired in nineteenth-century collections for their vivid coloration and intricate wing patterns. Their striking appearance made them highly desirable subjects for both scientific study and artistic representation.

Species such as Erycina hypsenina, belonging to the diverse Riodinidae family, fascinated naturalists with their metallic hues and distinctive patterning. Engravings from Lucas’s Exotic Butterflies remain outstanding examples of antique butterfly engraving and refined natural history illustration.

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. Fresh original hand-coloring with strong engraved impression. Printed on original nineteenth-century paper. Minor age toning consistent with the 1835 publication. Well-preserved examples of this quality are becoming increasingly scarce, particularly with such fresh color and clarity.

Details

• Scientific direction: Hippolyte Lucas
• Artist & engraver: Pauquet
• Work: Exotic Butterflies
• Species: Lacewing & Erycina (Cethosia cyane, Erycina hypsenina)
• Historical names on plate: Nymphalis veranes, Nymphalis hypsenina
• Year: 1835
• Technique: Original copper engraving, entirely hand-colored
• Paper: Original 19th-century laid paper
• Watermark: None present
• Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm