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Collection of 8 Canadian North American Butterfly & Beetle Studies

Collection of 8 Canadian North American Butterfly & Beetle Studies

Ref: PIN58

Price

£5400

Item Details

A superb and meticulously executed group of natural history watercolours depicting Canadian North American butterflies and beetles, dating to the late 19th century. The collection comprises six butterfly studies and two beetle studies, presented across five elegantly mounted and uniformly framed compositions. Measurements are taken from the frame. Each painting displays a remarkable attention to anatomical precision and chromatic fidelity, reflecting both scientific observation and artistic sensitivity typical of Victorian-era entomological illustration. Rendered in delicate washes of watercolour heightened with opaque gouache, these works capture the iridescent shimmer and intricate veining of the insects’ wings, set against subtly aged cream grounds that lend each composition a timeless, archival character. Several sheets bear faint period inscriptions and dates, one notably marked “1895”, suggesting a Canadian or broader North American provenance during a period of burgeoning natural history study. The compositions present a diverse arrangement of butterflies in shades of emerald, sulfur yellow, and deep indigo, one accompanied by a pale-winged grasshopper with other brilliantly coloured species—from vibrant orange and black Monarch-like specimens to delicately patterned swallowtails and small copper butterflies—demonstrating the artist’s keen eye for both variety and lifelike accuracy. The final frame departs slightly in subject, depicting two beetles, one an elongated longhorn variety with striking metallic yellow-green tones, and the other a compact dark scarab rendered with glossy realism.

Measurements

Height:

36.5 cm

Width:

28 cm

Date of manufacture

c.1895

Condition

The works are in commensurate condition for their age overall, with expected toning, foxing and handling stains throughout. Colours remain vivid and stable. Each watercolour is professionally housed in a matching frame and mounted in acid free mounts.

Delivery

We offer reliable delivery throughout the UK and worldwide via our trusted logistics partner, Alban Shipping. Delivery is arranged at an additional cost, and quoted to ensure the most efficient and secure service for each piece. For a delivery quotation, please contact Frank Storey Ltd or Alban Shipping directly: ✉️ info@albanshipping.co.uk 📞 +44 (0)1582 493099 / 0800 612 5060 🌐 albanshipping.co.uk United Kingdom Returns and Refunds In accordance with UK distance selling regulations, items purchased through Loveantiques and delivered to an address within the United Kingdom, may be returned for any reason within 14 days of receipt. All items must be returned in the same condition in which they were supplied. The client is responsible for the cost of return shipping, insurance, and any other expenses associated with the return. Should an item be returned in a condition other than that in which it was dispatched, Frank Storey Ltd reserves the right to withhold all or part of the refund at its discretion. International Returns and Refunds For pieces delivered to an address outside the United Kingdom, returns and refunds are not automatically accepted. Clients wishing to return a purchase delivered internationally are invited to contact Frank Storey Ltd to discuss the matter. If a return is agreed, the client will be responsible for all associated costs, including shipping, insurance, taxes, import duties, and any other relevant charges. Should an item be returned in a condition other than that in which it was dispatched, Frank Storey Ltd reserves the right to withhold all or part of the refund at its discretion.

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