A Study in Wings: Hand-Colored Lepidoptera of the Mid-19th Century

An antique hand-colored engraving. This particular illustration focuses on various moth and butterfly species, showcasing their wing patterns and body shapes in vibrant colors and with a high level of detail. The different specimens are numbered and named at the bottom, likely corresponding to their scientific names, which are partially legible and written in French. These include various types of moths and butterflies with distinct markings, such as eye-like spots on their wings, which are often used in nature as a form of mimicry or to ward off predators. The artistic style is consistent with scientific illustrations of the 19th century, aimed at providing an accurate representation of the insects for study and reference. The paper shows signs of aging, indicating the historical value of the print. This type of illustration would have been a vital educational tool at the time, combining scientific interest with an appreciation for the beauty of these creatures. The illustrator has captured both the structural and aesthetic qualities of the insects, which would have been important for both scientific taxonomy and for those with a general interest in natural history. The image appears to be a caption section from an antique hand-colored engraving, listing the names of various moth and butterfly species. The names are in French and are likely to correspond to the illustrations of the specimens on the main engraving. Here's the list of the species with a description based on the names provided: 1. **SÉSIE freloniforme**: This is likely a species of clearwing moth, which mimics the appearance of a hornet or wasp (hence "freloniforme", resembling a hornet). Clearwing moths are known for their transparent wings and mimicry for defense against predators. 2. **PROCRIS du Statice**: This could refer to a species of moth or butterfly associated with sea-lavender plants...

Title: Antique Hand-Colored Moth and Butterfly Prints by Blanchard and Fournier – Rare 19th-Century Natural History Illustrations This set of two exquisite antique prints showcases detailed hand-colored engravings of moths and butterflies, emphasizing the beauty and diversity of Lepidoptera. Created by Blanchard and Fournier in the 19th century, these plates are part of a larger series dedicated to natural history and entomology. They feature remarkable artistry and scientific precision, making them prized collectibles for lovers of natural history. 1. Plate 1: - Species Depicted: - Attacus grand paon de nuit (Saturnia pyri), also known as the Giant Peacock Moth, Europe's largest moth. - Attacus petit paon de nuit (Saturnia pavonia), the Small Emperor Moth. - These stunning moths are illustrated with their iconic eye-like wing patterns, used as a defense mechanism to deter predators. 2. Plate 2: - Species Depicted: - Sphinx tête de mort (Acherontia atropos), the Death's-head Hawkmoth, famous for the skull-like marking on its thorax. - Zygène de la filipendule (Zygaena filipendulae), the Six-spot Burnet Moth, known for its vibrant red spots. - Syntomeida phageo (Syntomis phageo), a colorful day-flying moth with a striking black and green pattern. - This plate highlights both the dramatic patterns and vibrant coloration of these species, showcasing their unique adaptations. These prints are perfect examples of the intersection of art and science, with meticulous detailing and vivid hand-coloring. They serve as a historical record of entomological studies and an artistic celebration of nature’s diversity. Keywords: Antique moth...

Title: A Symphony of Butterflies and Moths: Hand-Colored 19th-Century Engraving from Bertuch’s Bilderbuch für Kinder Description: This vibrant hand-colored copperplate engraving...

An original handcolored antique print featuring a series of illustrations of moths. Each moth is meticulously detailed, showcasing a variety of wing patterns and colors. The visual s...

English moth chromolithograph, circa 1900. Plate number top right. From an English series of illustrations of butterflies and moths. Butterflies / moths are numbered and there is an ...

English moth chromolithograph, circa 1900. Plate number top right. From an English series of illustrations of butterflies and moths. Butterflies / moths are numbered and there is an ...

'1. Castnia eudesmia 2. Castnia huebneri 3. Synemon catocaloides 4. Neocastnia nicevelli' Late 19th century colour lithograph of butterflies.

English butterfly chromolithograph, circa 1900. Plate number top right. From an English series of illustrations of butterflies and moths. Butterflies / moths are numbered and there i...