1867 Hand-Colored Lithograph Of South American Butterflies And Passionflower

Title: 1867 Hand-Colored Lithograph of South American Butterflies and Passionflower – A Stunning Natural History Artwork Description: This beautiful 1867 hand-colored lithograph presents an exquisite study of South American butterflies amidst the intricate blossoms and foliage of a passionflower (Passiflora). The composition features a variety of butterfly species, each meticulously illustrated to capture their vibrant patterns and delicate anatomy. The standout butterflies include a striking emerald-green and red specimen, an elegant black butterfly with iridescent blue markings, and others with vivid orange, yellow, and white accents. Their positioning on the passionflower vine emphasizes the ecological relationship between these insects and their host plant, highlighting the intricate balance of nature. The passionflower, with its ornate blossoms and tendrils, adds a botanical dimension to the artwork, making it a visually captivating piece that combines artistic mastery with scientific detail. This lithograph is a testament to the 19th-century fascination with documenting the natural world in both beauty and accuracy. The butterflies depicted might include species commonly found in Suriname and neighboring regions. Here are possible identifications:Butterfly 1: Likely a species of Urania, possibly Urania leilus (Green-banded Urania). These day-flying moths are native to the tropical rainforests of South America and are known for their iridescent green and black striped wings.Butterfly 2: Likely a Prepona species, such as Prepona laertes (Blue Prepona), known for its vibrant blue and black wings with a velvety appearance. This butterfly is native to South American rainforests.Butterfly 3: A species of Heliconius, possibly Heliconius melpomene (Postman Butterfly). Its bold orange and black patterns are characteristic of this genus, common in tropical South America.Butterfly 4: Likely a species of Hamadryas, such as Hamadryas feronia (Blue Cracker). These butterflies have cryptic brown and blue patterns and are found throughout South and Central America.The lithograph emphasizes their connection to Suriname through the caption. Suriname was a focal point for naturalists during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially after Maria Sibylla Merian's groundbreaking work on Surinamese insects. The presence of the passionflower (Passiflora), a host plant for several butterfly species, ties these butterflies to their ecological setting in tropical South America.Condition Report: The lithograph is in very good condition, with vivid hand-coloring and fine details well-preserved. The paper shows light age-related toning, consistent with its history, and minor foxing confined to the margins. Mounted on a cream-colored mat with yellow borders, this piece is ready for framing or display. This lithograph is perfect for collectors of entomological art, botanical illustration, or 19th-century natural history works, offering both visual appeal and scientific significance.