A dreamy, time-worn butterfly box from the legendary Maison Deyrolle in Paris.
Founded in 1831 at 46 Rue du Bac, Deyrolle is Paris's most famous natural history emporium - purveyor to artists, naturalists, and collectors for nearly 200 years. This is an original Deyrolle entomology display box, c. late 19th to early 20th century, now with the most beautiful, untouched patina.
Inside, 16+ specimens float against a softly pinstriped ground - sulphurs, whites, swallowtail, monarch, painted lady, blues and delicate moths - plus one iridescent beetle, with pressed cosmos and wildflowers gathered alongside. The arrangement is naive and romantic, clearly done by a young naturalist rather than a laboratory - pure Wunderkammer charm.
Housed in its original glass-topped box with iconic Deyrolle marbled paper sides.
Details:
• Origin: Maison Deyrolle, 46 Rue du Bac, Paris
• Age: Late 19th / Early 20th Century, circa 1900-1920s
• Material: Cardboard specimen box with original glass lid, marbled paper wrap, pinned butterflies, moths, beetle and dried botanicals
• Size: Approx. 15-1/2" x 10-1/4" x 2-1/4"
• Condition: Beautifully time-worn and 100% original. Box shows wear to marbled edges as pictured, some lifting. Glass intact. Specimens have age fading, some wing loss and dust/debris inside - exactly as found, untouched. We have left it uncleaned to preserve character.
This is a fragile antique natural history piece - sold as found, for display only.