Lot 116: A Mid-20th Century Brazilian Butterfly Wing and Inlaid Wood Serving Tray
A rectangular wooden serving tray featuring an intricate decorative collage of real butterfly wings set under a protective glass panel. The central design is anchored by a large iridescent blue Morpho butterfly, surrounded by concentric, symmetrical arrangements of various butterfly wings in shades of cream, brown, black, and orange. The surrounding specimens include wings from the owl butterfly (Caligo genus), notable for their distinct eyespots. The polished wood frame incorporates integrated cut-out handles and a decorative parquetry-inlaid border featuring a repeating geometric pattern. This style of decorative art was frequently produced in Brazil during the mid-20th century. Two small adhesive labels are present on the lower-left frame edge, one circular white label numbered 20 and one rectangular orange label numbered 116. No maker marks are visible.
Condition report:
The tray is in good overall condition. The butterfly wing specimens appear well-preserved under the glass, retaining vibrant colour with no visible signs of fading or pest damage. The glass panel is intact without cracks. The wooden frame and parquetry inlay show light surface wear and minor abrasions consistent with age and domestic use. The adhesive labels are still attached to the wood.
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