167 Sherman F. Denton (1856–1937) – Papilio Ajax (Swallowtail Butterfly) – Nature Print (1900)
This remarkable zoological illustration displays the Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio Ajax), showing both the upper and under sides of the wings against a plain background. The specimen is distinguished by its dramatic black and cream stripes, accented with red and blue markings, and the prominent "tails" on its hindwings. The plate was created using a unique process known as Lepidochromy, or scale transfer printing, in which the actual colored scales of the butterfly's wings were transferred directly onto the paper, giving the image exceptional fidelity to the natural specimen. The print is from Denton's highly acclaimed, limited-edition publication, Moths and Butterflies of the United States, East of the Rocky Mountains.
Sherman Foote Denton was an American naturalist, illustrator, and entrepreneur known for his innovative approaches to preserving and displaying zoological specimens. He was the author of the work from which this plate is taken, overseeing a labor-intensive project to document American lepidoptera with unprecedented realism by employing the patented nature printing technique. Denton was also known for his patented "Denton mounts," a method for preparing butterflies for display.
Artist or Maker: Sherman F. Denton
Dimensions: Approximately 26 × 19 cm
Medium: Nature Print
Date: 1900
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.
| Värdering | 200 - 300 SEK |
| Köparprovision (inkl. moms) | 24.4% |
| Slagavgift (inkl. moms) | 6 SEK |
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