H.N. Humphreys. "Thecla Betulae. Thecla Pruni." Pl. XXV. From British Butterflies and their Transformations.
London: W.S. Orr & Co., 1849. Sheet 10 1/2 x 8; image 8 x 6. Lithograph. Full original hand color. FIne condition.
One of a series of charming prints illustrating the complex varieties of British butterflies. Each plate presents several types, shown as well in their successive stages of development. The insects are posed against the native flora that is their characteristic habitat. The refined drawing and delicate hand coloring meet well the challenge of these intricate and beautiful creatures, making for both educational and lovely images. These are prints that do proud the flourishing art of 19th-century natural history illustration.