This captivating hand-colored engraving, titled "Le grand Oculé de Cayenne" (The Great Eyed Butterfly of Cayenne), presents two striking examples of this butterfly species. The upper butterfly features bold orange-red upper wings contrasting with black lower wings, while the lower one displays intricate patterns of ocelli (eye-spots) in shades of orange-brown, black, and white. The meticulous rendering of their wing venation, antennae, and body segments, along with vibrant hand-coloring, reflects the scientific precision and artistic elegance typical of 18th-century entomological illustrations. This print originates from Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon's monumental Histoire Naturelle, contributing to the comprehensive documentation of the natural world.

François-Nicolas Martinet was a celebrated French engraver and naturalist illustrator of the 18th century, widely renowned for his extensive contributions to Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon's monumental Histoire Naturelle. Robert Bénard was another significant French engraver who often directed or contributed to major encyclopedic works of the period. Their collaboration on such plates ensured a high standard of accuracy and artistic quality, significantly advancing the public's understanding of diverse insect species through detailed copperplate engravings.

Artist or Maker: François-Nicolas Martinet (Engraver), Robert Bénard (Delineator/Director)

Dimensions: Approximately 28 cm x 20 cm

Medium: Hand-Colored Engraving

Date: Circa 1770-1780

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.

Värdering	300 - 500 SEK
Köparprovision (inkl. moms)	24.4%
Slagavgift (inkl. moms)	6 SEK

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Dahlströms Rare Prints
Harju maakond, Tallinn
Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415
Estland
+46 70 359 75 85
info@dahlstromsfineart.se

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170 François-Nicolas Martinet (1731–1800) & Robert Bénard (c. 1734–c. 1794) – The Great Eyed Butterfly of Cayenne – Hand-Colored Engraving (c. 1770-1780)