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Butterfly orchid, Psychopsis papilio
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Butterfly orchid, Psychopsis papilio
Butterfly orchid, Psychopsis papilio (Butterfly oncidium, Oncidium papilio). Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Watts after a botanical illustration by Mills from Benjamin Maund and the Rev. John Stevens Henslows The Botanist, London, 1836
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Media ID 23161576
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Benjamin Botanist Butterfly Henslow Maund Mills Oncidium Orchid Papilio Stevens Watts Psychopsis
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This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving showcases the enchanting beauty of the Butterfly Orchid, Psychopsis papilio, also known as the Butterfly Oncidium or Papilio Oncidium. The intricate detail of the image is a testament to the skillful artistry of the engraver, Watts, working from a botanical illustration by Mills. The illustration was published in Benjamin Maund and the Reverend John Stevens Henslow's esteemed publication, "The Botanist," in London during 1836. The Butterfly Orchid is a rare and captivating species, native to the cloud forests of South America. Its unique appearance earned it its name, as its petals resemble the wings of a butterfly, with delicate veining and intricate patterns that mimic the delicate wings of the insect. The orchid's labellum, or central petal, is shaped like a butterfly's body, adding to the illusion. The Victorian era, during which this print was produced, was a time of great fascination with botany and the natural world. Collecting and displaying exotic plants and flowers was a popular pastime among the wealthy, and publications like "The Botanist" catered to this interest. The hand-colored copperplate engravings, such as this one, were highly sought after for their beauty and accuracy, making them valuable additions to any botanical collection. Today, the Butterfly Orchid remains a rare and elusive beauty, admired by botanists and gardeners alike for its unique and captivating appearance. This stunning print serves as a reminder of the beauty and intrigue of the natural world, and the importance of preserving and celebrating the rare and exotic species that inhabit it.
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