Mormon Swallowtail Butterflies (Papilio polytes group) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving, Exotic Butterflies (1835)

Mormon Swallowtails: Graphic Contrast and Subtle Colour Accents

This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving depicts two refined swallowtail butterflies from the Papilio polytes group, commonly known as Mormon swallowtails. The plate forms part of Exotic Butterflies, produced under the scientific direction of Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet. On the original plate, the species appear under historical names such as Papilio panthus and related denominations.

The composition presents a balanced vertical arrangement, pairing two variations of swallowtail morphology. The engraving reflects the clarity and elegance typical of nineteenth-century natural history illustration, where symmetrical form and pattern definition were essential to both scientific and artistic representation.

The interplay of deep black, soft cream, and subtle blue and orange accents creates a visually refined composition. This engraving stands out as an elegant piece of antique butterfly wall art, particularly suited to interiors that favour contrast, structure, and understated colour.

— • —

Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The upper butterfly displays a striking graphic pattern defined by strong black and cream contrasts. The segmented wing markings create a rhythmic, almost architectural structure, enhanced by delicate tail extensions that emphasize the classic swallowtail silhouette.

Below, the second specimen introduces a warmer tonal range, with deep brown wings accented by soft blue patches and small orange markings. The broader distribution of colour creates a softer visual flow, balancing the sharper contrast of the upper butterfly.

About the Species

Butterflies of the Papilio polytes group were widely studied in nineteenth-century natural history due to their variation and mimicry patterns. Their adaptability and visual diversity made them particularly interesting to early naturalists.

Engravings from Lucas’s Exotic Butterflies captured these variations with precision, transforming scientific observation into enduring works of antique butterfly engraving and refined natural history art.

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: Mormon Swallowtails (Papilio polytes group)
• Historical names on plate: Papilio panthus and related denominations
• Year: 1835
• Technique: Original copper engraving, entirely hand-colored
• Paper: Original 19th-century laid paper
• Watermark: None present
• Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm