E. Guérin, Butterfly and Moth, 1835, Engraving, Set of 2

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Pair of French Butterfly & Moth Engravings by E. Guérin, 1835 This elegant pair of antique French natural history engravings … Read more Pair of French Butterfly & Moth Engravings by E. Guérin, 1835 This elegant pair of antique French natural history engravings depicts butterflies, moths, caterpillars, and botanical studies rendered in delicate original hand-color. Produced circa 1835 under the direction of the French zoological illustrator Edmond Guérin (“E. Guérin dir.”), these plates are beautiful examples of early 19th-century natural history illustration, combining scientific observation with refined decorative appeal. The first engraving, titled “Piérides,” illustrates several butterfly species associated with the Pieridae family, including Anthocharis du cresson and Idmais arne. The butterflies are shown hovering above flowering plants within a peaceful pastoral landscape. The composition includes detailed studies of the caterpillar and chrysalis stages attached to the host plant, emphasizing the complete life cycle in the great tradition of French entomological publishing. The vivid orange, cream, and black wing coloration contrasts beautifully with the soft green botanical elements and distant countryside scenery. The second plate depicts the spectacular “Saturnie du Poirier,” a giant silk moth shown together with its caterpillar, cocoon, and chrysalis. The enormous moth dominates the composition with richly patterned wings featuring dramatic eye-like markings and subtle bands of cream, rose, and deep brown. Below, the bright green caterpillar clings naturally to a leafy branch, while the cocoon and chrysalis complete the scientific presentation of the insect’s developmental stages. The spacious arrangement and precise engraving lend the plate a remarkably modern and decorative appearance. Both engravings were carefully hand-colored at the time of publication and reflect the high quality associated with Parisian natural history works of the 1830s and 1840s. These plates were intended not only for scientific study but also for collectors and cultivated interiors fascinated by the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Today, such engravings are highly sought after for cabinet-of-curiosity displays, libraries, studies, conservatories, and sophisticated gallery walls. Together, the pair offers an appealing contrast between delicate butterflies and dramatic silk moth imagery, creating a visually balanced and highly decorative natural history set. Condition: Good antique condition overall, with age-related toning, scattered foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with age. Colors remain fresh and attractive. Please study the images carefully. Framing tip: Particularly attractive framed together in matching dark walnut, ebonized, or gilt frames with wide cream or ivory mats. The pair also works beautifully in salon-style arrangements with other botanical and entomological engravings. Note: These prints are original antique engravings, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The pieces are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Technique: Antique hand-colored engravings Maker: Edmond Guérin, French, circa 1835 See less