European Peacock Collection

Inachis io, peacock butterfly
Plate 23 from Illustrations of British butterflies and their larvae, with the plants on which they feed, by Theo Johnson, 1892

Inachis io, peacock butterfly
Plate 23 from Illustrations of British Butterflies and their Larvae (1892) by Theo Johnson. Cropped image of illustration

Inachis io Linneaus, peacock butterfly
Close up of wing of peacock butterfly from the family Nymphalida. Magnified wing detail from specimen held at the Natural History Museum, London

European Peacock (Aglais io), insect animals antique illustration

Spring crocus, Crocus vernus, and European peacock butterfly, Aglais io
6336962 Spring crocus, Crocus vernus, and European peacock butterfly, Aglais io by Rabel, Daniel (1578-1637); (add.info.: Spring crocus, Crocus vernus, and European peacock butterfly, Aglais io)

Peacock, Smalll Tortoiseshell and Comma Butterflies... c1930s, (1945). Creator: Vere Temple
Peacock, Smalll Tortoiseshell and Comma Butterflies - Vanessa io, Vanessa urticae and Vannessa c-album, c1930s, (1945). Aglais io, Aglais urticae and Polygonia c-album - chrysalises

One caterpillar of European Peacock (Aglais io) on Common Nettle (Urtica dioica), veluwe, gelderland, the Netherlands

European Peacock (Inachis io), hairy caterpillar on narrow

Illustration of European Peacock (Inachis io) caterpillar hanging from branch

The European Peacock Butterfly, Inachis io

European Peacock or Peacock Butterfly -Inachis io- in search of nectar on a Greater Burdock -Arctium lappa-, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany

European Peacock -Inachis io, Io nymphalis-, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Inachis io, peacock butterfly caterpillar
Picture 1, series A, in a sequence of 6 pictures showing the emergence of a peacock butterfly, beginning its active life as a caterpillar

Inachis io, peacock butterfly, emerging from its pupa
Picture 3, series A, in a sequence of 6 pictures showing the emergence of a peacock butterfly, from its pupa or chyrsalis form

Inachis io, peacock (above) & Vanessa atalanta, red admiral
Plate 13 from Larvae and Pupae of British Lepidoptera (1878) by Theo Johnson

Aglais urticae and Inachis io
Small tortoiseshell and peacock butterflies. Pressed insects prepared by Leonard Plukenet, housed at the Natural History Museum, London

Inachis io (Linnaeus), peacock butterfly
A mounted specimen a peacock butterfly, family Nymphalidae from the collections of the Natural History Museum, London

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The European Peacock, scientifically known as Inachis io, is a captivating butterfly species that never fails to mesmerize with its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. This beautiful insect has been captured in various antique illustrations throughout history, showcasing its undeniable allure. One such illustration portrays the European Peacock butterfly gracefully perched on a Spring crocus, Crocus vernus. The contrast between the delicate petals of the flower and the striking wings of the butterfly creates an enchanting scene that epitomizes nature's beauty. In another artwork from the 1930s, we see not only one but three stunning butterflies: the Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, and Comma Butterflies. These exquisite creatures flutter amidst a backdrop of lush foliage, their wings displaying an array of hues that seem almost unreal. Delving further into history takes us back to the 1870s when Marie Blanche Hennelle Fournier created "The Madame B Album. " Within its pages lies yet another depiction of this majestic species. Its regal presence is accentuated by meticulously detailed wings adorned with eye-like markings resembling those found on peacocks' feathers. Butterfly enthusiasts from centuries ago were equally captivated by these creatures' charm. Coloured engravings dating back to 1783-1806 showcase different species in all their glory. Among them stands out none other than our beloved European Peacock - a testament to its timeless appeal. Not only are these butterflies visually stunning; they also undergo fascinating transformations during their life cycle. From caterpillar to adult form, every stage holds its own unique beauty. One image captures a hairy caterpillar hanging from a branch while undergoing metamorphosis into an elegant European Peacock butterfly—a reminder of nature's incredible ability for transformation and renewal. Whether observed in vintage illustrations or encountered firsthand in nature's embrace, there is no denying that the European Peacock leaves an indelible impression.