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Exotic Butterflies (Papilio sesostris, dimas, nephalion) – Antique Engraving (1835) - Pauquet
€240.00
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Striking black butterflies with vivid green, pink, and red accents. A dramatic 1835 engraving with strong contrast and bold decorative appeal.
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Authentic antique prints
Original engravings from the 17th–19th century.
Black & Multicolor Swallowtail Butterflies: Bold Contrast in Exotic Lepidoptera
This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving depicts three striking swallowtail butterflies, historically identified as Papilio sesostris, Papilio dimas, and Papilio nephalion. The plate belongs to the celebrated Exotic Butterflies series directed by Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet.
The composition is defined by a deep black ground dramatically contrasted by vivid accents of green, pink, red, and white. This interplay of intense colors against dark wings creates a powerful and highly decorative visual effect.
With its strong graphic presence, this engraving is particularly suited as antique butterfly wall art, offering a bold and sophisticated statement.
— • —
Visual and Aesthetic Analysis
The upper butterfly features luminous green markings set against deep black wings, creating a striking and almost iridescent effect.
The central specimen introduces soft pink tones, while the lower butterfly intensifies the palette with vibrant red accents, forming a dynamic progression of color across the plate.
This structured variation enhances the visual rhythm of the composition, making it both scientifically engaging and aesthetically compelling.
About the Species
Swallowtail butterflies (Papilio) are among the most celebrated groups in Lepidoptera, known for their elegant shapes and striking coloration. Many species display bold color contrasts used for signaling and mimicry.
Their dramatic appearance made them a favorite subject among nineteenth-century naturalists, who sought to document both their diversity and their visual impact.
This engraving reflects that fascination, capturing the richness and intensity of tropical butterfly species with remarkable precision.
Heritage Stories
This engraving is part of the renowned Lucas – Exotic Butterflies series, published in 1835 during the golden age of natural history illustration.
Learn more in our article: Hippolyte Lucas and Exotic Butterflies.
The engraving was executed by Pauquet, whose refined technique allowed even the most intense color contrasts to be rendered with exceptional clarity: Pauquet: Master Engraver.
Condition Report
Very good antique condition. Deep, well-preserved blacks with vivid original hand-coloring. Printed on original nineteenth-century paper. Minor age toning consistent with age. Examples with such strong contrast and color intensity are increasingly difficult to find.
Details
- Scientific direction: Hippolyte Lucas
- Artist & engraver: Pauquet
- Work: Exotic Butterflies
- Species: Papilio sesostris, Papilio dimas, Papilio nephalion
- Year: 1835
- Technique: Original copper engraving, hand-colored
- Paper: Original 19th-century paper
- Watermark: None visible
- Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm
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