Plate 9

Blue Butterflies and Pomegranate, 1705-1771

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The two Morpho menelaus (Linnaeus) butterflies here are shown life-size. These slow-flying insects had a seven-inch wingspan and with their iridescent wings would have presented a dramatic sight high up in the jungle canopy. In this image Merian chose to illustrate the butterflies on a pomegranate tree. Though not native to South America, the tree had been introduced to Suriname and was quite familiar to her European audience.

Details
Title
Blue Butterflies and Pomegranate
Artist Life
1647-1717
Role
Artist
Accession Number
P.18,715
Catalogue Raisonne
Nissen: 1342; Cat. Ger. Nat'l. Museum, 1967
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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Plate 9