Close-ups
Framed and on the wall
Frame and rooms are illustrations of how the print could look; the description says what is included.
Hawk-Moths and Butterflies: Hand-Colored Engravings, Published in 1805
$345 (£260, €310)
Period original, not a reproduction.
Shipped from the Netherlands, flat, insured and tracked, worldwide. Returns accepted within 14 days.
- Date
- 1805
- Size
- 10.1 × 7.8 in (25.7 × 19.7 cm)
- Condition
- Good. The engravings are in good condition, with vibrant hand-coloring, sharp details, and intact edges. Minimal age-toning and slight foxing are present but typical for works of this age. Overall, they are well-preserved, ideal for display.
- Period
- Early 19th century
- Artist or book
- Bertuch
- Section
- Insects and butterflies
- Reference
- f_43314032
- Colour
- Hand coloured
What the condition grades mean
- Excellent
- Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
- Very good
- Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
- Good
- Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
- Fair
- Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
The composition of these two hand-colored copperplate engravings presents a visually rich study of moths, butterflies, and their life stages, as published in Friedrich Johann Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" (1805).
The first image features:
- The poplar hawk-moth (Laothoe populi), lime hawk-moth (Mimas tiliae), and elephant hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor), with accompanying caterpillars and pupae.
The second image illustrates:
- The silver-washed fritillary (Argynnis paphia), large blue (Phengaris arion), brown hairstreak (Thecla betulae), and small copper butterfly (Lycaena phlaeas), including their larvae and pupae.
Both engravings exemplify Bertuch's dedication to blending scientific accuracy with artistic detail in his educational works.
These stunning hand-colored copperplate engravings are not only scientifically informative but also visually captivating, making them ideal for collectors, educators, or anyone seeking unique decorative art. The vibrant hues and meticulous detailing reflect the exceptional craftsmanship of Friedrich Johann Bertuch's renowned "Bilderbuch für Kinder," an encyclopedia celebrated for its fusion of education and artistry. Each print vividly illustrates the beauty of moths, butterflies, and their life cycles, offering a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century natural history.
Their good condition enhances their value, with intact edges, sharp engravings, and minimal signs of age. These timeless pieces are perfect for framing, adding sophistication to any interior space, or enhancing a natural history collection. Whether for a collector of historical prints, an art enthusiast, or as a thoughtful gift for nature lovers, these engravings offer both aesthetic appeal and historical significance, making them a valuable addition to any home or collection.
