Overview
A delicate hand-colored natural history illustration of the Southern White Admiral butterfly, identified by its French common name 'Le Petit Sylvain.'
Preliminary identification
Framed French Natural History Print of 'Le Petit Sylvain' Butterfly
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Natural history prints like this were the high-definition photography of the 1800s, created during a time when the 'Natural History Craze' gripped Europe.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, the style and nomenclature are heavily influenced by the work of Jean-Baptiste Godart and Pierre-André Latreille, who produced the definitive 'Histoire naturelle des lépidoptères' in the early 19th century.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good condition with no visible foxing or water damage. The frame shows minor age-appropriate wear which adds to its vintage character. The matting appears clean and acid-free, which helps preserve the paper. Excellent preservation of the colors.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD