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85 - Edward Donovan (Irish/British, 1768-1837) Papilio (Ornithoptera) priamus- Priams Birdwing on Minosa grandiflora inscribed 'Papilo Priamus, Mimosa Grandiflora. Papilo Priamus is found in Amboyna, it is extremely rare, next to Ulysses, is considered the most beautiful of this tribe of insects' (lower centre) gouache and gum arabic on whatman paper Unframed: 27 x 20.5 cm. (10 5/8 x 8 1/8 in.) Framed: 41 x 35 cm. (16 1/8 x 13 3/4 in.) Private Collection, U.K. A very similar composition is published as the 15th plate in Edward Donovan's An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of India, within which he describes the butterfly as follows; “With the exception of Papilio Ulysses, which perhaps in point of splendour may excel Papilio Priamus is beyond comparison the most lovely creature of this tribe of insects hitherto discovered, either in India or any other country. It is a native of Amboyna, where we understand it is extremely rare".1 1Donovan, Edward. An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of India. London: T. Bensley, 1800, pl. 16.
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Estimation
£300 - 500 (€350 - 600)Sale fees
Edward Donovan (Irish/British, 1768-1837) Papilio (Ornithoptera) priamus- Priams Birdwing on Minosa grandiflora inscribed 'Papilo Priamus, Mimosa Grandiflora. Papilo Priamus is found in Amboyna, it is extremely rare, next to Ulysses, is considered the most beautiful of this tribe of insects' (lower centre) gouache and gum arabic on whatman paper Unframed: 27 x 20.5 cm. (10 5/8 x 8 1/8 in.) Framed: 41 x 35 cm. (16 1/8 x 13 3/4 in.) Private Collection, U.K. A very similar composition is published as the 15th plate in Edward Donovan's An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of India, within which he describes the butterfly as follows; “With the exception of Papilio Ulysses, which perhaps in point of splendour may excel Papilio Priamus is beyond comparison the most lovely creature of this tribe of insects hitherto discovered, either in India or any other country. It is a native of Amboyna, where we understand it is extremely rare".1 1Donovan, Edward. An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of India. London: T. Bensley, 1800, pl. 16.
Auction details
Old Master & 19th Century ArtAuction house
Chiswick Auctions +44 2 08 99 24 442 bids@chiswickauctions.co.ukDelivery is optional. You can use the carrier of your choice. The stated price does not include the lot price or the auction house fees.