Framed Butterfly Specimen Display (Papilio xuthus & Papilio polytes)

Name: Framed Butterfly Specimen Display (Papilio xuthus & Papilio polytes)
Brand: yuurr
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Framed display of two mounted butterfly specimens, Papilio xuthus and Papilio polytes, under glass in a dark wooden frame. - view 1

1/3

Estimated value

$75 - $250

Rarity

Average(4/10)

FRAMED BUTTERFLY SPECIMEN DISPLAY (PAPILIO XUTHUS & PAPILIO POLYTES): IDENTIFICATION

This is a framed entomological display featuring two mounted butterfly specimens: a Papilio xuthus (Asian Swallowtail) and a Papilio polytes (Common Mormon). Both specimens appear to be pinned to a backing board, likely cork or foam, and protected under glass within a simple, dark-stained wooden frame. The scientific names are clearly labeled beneath each butterfly, which is standard practice in entomological collections.

Compare with other natural specimens in the archive: Blue Calcite Specimen, Manganese Dendrites on Limestone Matrix, Helena's Swallowtail (Papilio helenus fortunius) Framed Butterfly Specimen.

SCARCITY

Average55-70%

CommonLegendary

Typical antique shop fare. Requires some searching but regularly available. This is where most genuine antiques fall.

Rarity 4/10. Curiosa currently catalogues 4 natural items at rarity 4 or higher.

Typical Characteristics

Standard antique shop items
Regularly available
Moderate collector interest

Confidence Factors

Species are correctly identified and typical for entomological displays.
Mounting style and frame are consistent with period practices.
Reproduction of such common species is generally not economically viable, reducing forgery risk.

How does authenticity detection work?

NATURALIST'S ASSESSMENT

Natural History Curator & Specimen Preparator

Natural History Specialist

The clear species identification from the labels and visual characteristics of the butterflies, combined with the typical presentation of an entomological display, allows for a high level of confidence in the object's basic identification. Further details would require physical examination.

KEY EVIDENCE

1Clear identification of two common Papilio species: P. xuthus and P. polytes.
2Specimens are pinned and labeled, consistent with standard entomological practices.
3The frame style and paper aging suggest mid-20th century construction.
4The species selected are not rare or endangered, reducing provenance concerns.

UNCERTAINTIES

•The overall lighting in the images makes it difficult to assess the exact coloration fidelity of the butterflies.
•The extent of any pest damage (dermestid beetles, etc.) cannot be determined through the glass or from these images.
•Lack of collection locality or date on the labels, which would add significant scientific value and provenance.

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

→Inspect the specimens closely under good lighting for any signs of pest damage, fading, or repair.
→Check for any additional labels on the reverse of the frame that might indicate collection details or a preparator.
→Assess the stability of the mounting pins and condition of the glass seal within the frame.

CONDITION & GRADE

Condition

The specimens appear to be intact, though slight wing damage or antenna loss is common in older mounts and cannot be definitively assessed without closer inspection. The paper labels show age-appropriate yellowing. The frame itself seems stable with minimal visible damage.