Orange & Yellow Butterflies – Antique Engraving (1835)

Orange & Yellow Tropical Exotic Butterflies (Leucophasia nina, Aurocaria flava group) – Hand-Colored Engraving by Pauquet (1835)

Orange & Yellow Tropical Exotic Butterflies (Leucophasia nina, Aurocaria flava group) – Hand-Colored Engraving by Pauquet (1835)

€235.00

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Bright orange and yellow butterflies with striking contrast against white wings. A vivid 1835 engraving with strong decorative and visual impact.

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Authentic antique prints

Original engravings from the 17th–19th century.

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Orange & Yellow Tropical Butterflies: Radiant Colour in Exotic Lepidoptera

This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving presents a striking composition of tropical butterflies, historically identified on the plate as Leucophasia nina and related species within the Aurocaria group. The plate forms part of the celebrated Exotic Butterflies series directed by Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet.

The engraving combines three distinct specimens, each showcasing a different chromatic expression—from intense orange and deep black to luminous yellow and refined white—creating a visually dynamic and highly decorative ensemble.

The vivid palette and balanced composition make this piece particularly appealing as antique butterfly wall art, combining scientific precision with exceptional decorative impact.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The central butterfly dominates the composition with radiant yellow wings contrasted by bold orange upper sections edged in black, producing a strong and luminous visual effect.

Below, a second specimen introduces a refined interplay of white and red accents, while the smaller upper butterfly provides a delicate counterpoint with its minimal and elegant markings.

Together, these elements create a composition that is both scientifically informative and visually captivating, ideal for decorative display.

About the Species

Butterflies within these tropical groups are known for their vivid coloration and their role in mimicry systems, where bright colors signal toxicity or imitate other species as a survival strategy.

Nineteenth-century naturalists were particularly fascinated by these color patterns, which challenged early theories of adaptation and evolution. These species became emblematic of the richness and diversity of tropical ecosystems.

This engraving reflects both the scientific curiosity of the period and the aesthetic appreciation for bold natural forms, making it a valuable addition to any collection of antique natural history prints.

Heritage Stories

This engraving is part of the renowned Lucas – Exotic Butterflies series, published in 1835, a period marked by the golden age of illustrated natural history.

Discover more about the scientific context in our article: Hippolyte Lucas and Exotic Butterflies.

The engraving was executed by Pauquet, whose refined technique brought exceptional clarity and vibrancy to these tropical subjects: Pauquet: Master Engraver.

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. Bright original hand-coloring with strong contrast and excellent preservation. Printed on original nineteenth-century paper. Minor age toning consistent with age. Such well-preserved examples with this level of color brilliance are increasingly difficult to find.

Details

Scientific direction: Hippolyte Lucas
Artist & engraver: Pauquet
Work: Exotic Butterflies
Species: Leucophasia / Aurocaria group
Year: 1835
Technique: Original copper engraving, hand-colored
Paper: Original 19th-century paper
Watermark: None visible
Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm

Reference YBD

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