Red & Black Butterflies – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving (1835)

Metalmark & Long-Tailed Butterflies (Erycina cnidus, Lysis iphron, Moyina sapra) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving (1835)

Metalmark & Long-Tailed Butterflies (Erycina cnidus, Lysis iphron, Moyina sapra) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving (1835)

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Metalmark & Long-Tailed Butterflies (Erycina cnidus, Lysis iphron, Moyina sapra) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving (1835).

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Authentic antique prints

Original engravings from the 17th–19th century.

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Red & Black Butterflies: Dramatic Contrast in Exotic Lepidoptera

This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving depicts a striking group of butterflies including species historically identified as Erycina cnidus, Lysis iphron, and Moyina sapra. The plate belongs to the renowned Exotic Butterflies series directed by Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet.

The composition is defined by vivid red and orange tones contrasted with deep black wings, creating a bold and highly decorative visual effect. The variation in wing shapes, from delicate forms to elongated tails, adds further visual interest.

With its dramatic contrast and dynamic arrangement, this engraving is particularly suited as antique butterfly wall art, offering a powerful and refined decorative statement.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The upper butterfly presents a refined interplay of orange, white, and black, enriched by intricate detailing and elegant wing extensions.

The central specimens intensify the palette with bold red and black contrasts, creating a strong visual focal point.

The lower butterfly introduces elongated tails and deep dark tones, adding a dramatic and sculptural finish to the composition.

About the Species

Butterflies associated with genera such as Erycina and related groups are known for their diversity of form, ranging from compact shapes to elongated, tailed species.

Their vivid coloration and structural variety made them particularly compelling subjects for nineteenth-century natural history illustration.

This engraving reflects that diversity, combining multiple visual identities within a cohesive and striking composition.

Heritage Stories

This engraving is part of the celebrated 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 vivid color contrasts and intricate details to be rendered with remarkable precision: Pauquet: Master Engraver .

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. Strong, well-preserved hand-coloring with vivid reds, oranges, and deep blacks. Printed on original nineteenth-century paper. Minor age toning consistent with age. Examples with such bold contrast and visual intensity are increasingly difficult to find.

Details

Scientific direction: Hippolyte Lucas
Artist & engraver: Pauquet
Work: Exotic Butterflies
Species: Erycina cnidus, Lysis iphron, Moyina sapra
Year: 1835
Technique: Original copper engraving, hand-colored
Paper: Original 19th-century paper
Watermark: None visible
Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm

Reference YC9

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