Butterfly and Moth Watercolor Study
England: Mid 19th Century
Ink and gouache on paper
17.25 x 14.25 inches, overall
Provenance: David Ker Fine Art, 85 Bourne Street, London
$2,200

Original British natural history study of butterflies and moths, each shown with its native flora, finely executed with great detail and attractive colors, artistically arranged on one sheet. The Latin and common names are written above each illustration, except the top two. A detailed handwritten description below each illustration details where they may be found, their appearances, and distinguishing behavior of the species. Among some of the species depicted are the Orange Tip Butterfly, the Silver Stripe Hawk Moth, the Common Blue Butterfly, and the Common Butterfly.

As an example, the description of the Orange tip Butterfly reads as follows:

"This Butterfly may be taken in great abundance in the month of May. The male insect only, has the bright orange colour on the wings, the female is white, with some few marks of black. The underside is beautifully marble and matted with green in both sexes."

Condition: Generally very good with the usual light overall toning and wear. Mounted with cloth backing, possibly as issued. Scientific and common names for the top row of two species lacking -- possibly trimmed from the sheet.