Bilder François Martinet (fl. 1760–1800) – The Tirapiu & The Rouël – Original Hand-Colored Engraving – France, ca. 1780s

Beskrivning

This exquisite hand-colored engraving presents six butterfly specimens labeled as Le Tirapiu (mâle et femelle, de la Chine) and Le Rouël, arranged in a symmetrical composition. Rendered with precision and vibrant pigment, the butterflies are displayed with open wings to highlight their distinctive patterns and coloration. The plate combines scientific documentation with decorative elegance, typical of Enlightenment-era natural history illustration. Such engravings reflected both a scientific curiosity for global fauna and an aesthetic appreciation for the natural world's diversity.

François Martinet was a French engraver and illustrator active during the latter half of the 18th century. He is best known for his contributions to Buffon’s “Histoire Naturelle,” for which he produced hundreds of ornithological and entomological plates. His work is celebrated for its clarity, accuracy, and the refined hand-coloring that brought each subject to life, bridging scientific inquiry and visual art.

Artist:
François Martinet

Dimensions:
28 x 20 cm

Medium:
Hand-Colored Copperplate Engraving

Date:
1780

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.