The Papilio Helena Butterfly.

British Isles:, c. 1810.. Fine condition. A charming and rare original early 19th watercolor painting of the Papilio Helena Butterfly. Gouache on China paper, mounted onto Cornish & Bond * Extra London Board with pencil notation. (6.25 x 6 inches, 158 x 152 mm). The painting has been tipped onto ecru board of the period, yet the colors remain vibrant and rich. Although the artist of this brilliant study remains unknown, his or her technique and refined skill at handling this challenging medium is evident. An exacting eye and subtle use of color were the hallmarks of a trained student. During the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the art of natural history painting was an essential and favored skill for all well-bred gentlewomen. Clearly painted by an impassioned and experienced "armchair naturalist", who sought inspitation from the pletheral of bound volumes documenting the natural world of the day. Here the inspiration for this lovely composition was none other than George Shaw & Frederick P. Nodder's coveted engravings from The Naturalist's Miscellany. (London c. 1790-1813), and for this original study, was adapted with considerable skill and attention to refined detailing and coloration. Period pencil notation on card stock documents the name and origin of specimen; "Papilio Helena. Native of America."