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 pinned butterfly specimens, a yellow Papilio xuthus and a dark brown Papilio polytes, with scientific labels. - view 1

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A decorative display featuring two pinned butterfly specimens: a Papilio xuthus (Eastern Tiger Swallowtail) and a Papilio polytes (Common Mormon). The butterflies are mounted on a cream-colored background, each labeled with its scientific name, and housed within a black wooden frame with a glass front. The frame exhibits minor wear and has an antique aesthetic.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Victorian Era19th century

The widespread practice of entomology as a scientific pursuit and hobby, leading to the creation of elaborate insect displays and cabinets of curiosities.

Natural History Museums18th-21st century

These displays echo the systematic presentation of specimens found in museum collections, designed for study and public education.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•The collection and cataloging of natural specimens for scientific study or personal enjoyment, a ritual of observation and classification.
•The decorative display of natural beauty as a conversation piece or educational tool within a domestic setting.

Meaning Through Time

18th-19th Century

Butterfly collecting was often seen as a serious scientific endeavor, contributing to the understanding of biodiversity and evolution. It was also a pastime for the educated elite.

20th Century

While still a scientific pursuit, framed butterfly displays became more popularized as decorative items, moving from purely entomological collections to general home decor, often mass-produced.

Present Day

Such displays are viewed as vintage decorative objects, appreciated for their aesthetic and historical charm, though sometimes raising ethical questions about the sourcing of specimens, especially for endangered species.

HISTORICAL STORY

The practice of collecting and displaying insect specimens, particularly butterflies and moths, gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries as part of natural history studies and gentlemanly pursuits. Entomology became both a scientific discipline and a hobby, with elaborate cabinets and ...

DID YOU KNOW?

The Papilio xuthus, or Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, is native to East Asia and is known for its impressive size and vibrant yellow and black stripes, mimicking larger, more dangerous insects to deter predators.

The Papilio polytes, or Common Mormon butterfly, is found across Asia and has several different forms, including mimetic forms that resemble unpalatable butterflies to protect itself from predators.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The frame has a smooth, likely lacquered or painted, black wooden finish, showing some wear and chippings along the edges. The glass cover is clean, and the paper backing for the specimens appears to be a slightly aged, cream-colored cardstock.

Weight & Feel

Given the size of the frame and the materials (wood, glass), it likely feels light to moderate in weight, easily handled with one hand.

Condition

The frame exhibits minor wear on its edges, consistent with handling and age. The butterflies appear well-preserved, though the exact condition of their delicate wings cannot be fully assessed through the glass. The mounting paper shows slight discoloration, indicative of age.

RARITY ANALYSIS

Average55-70%

CommonLegendary

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

Typical Characteristics

Standard antique shop items
Regularly available
Moderate collector interest

ESTIMATED VALUE

$80 - $250

Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Market comparables from auctions & retail
Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
Current collector demand & trends
Low = quick sale, High = patient seller

For informational purposes only—not a formal appraisal.

CONTEXT ANALYSIS

How your provided context compares with Curiosa.com scanner findings.

What Aligned

User's identification of 'Papilio xuthus - Eastern Tiger Swallowtail' for the top butterfly and 'Papilio polytes - Common Mormon' for the bottom butterfly is visually consistent with the images.
User's description of the butterflies' coloring and markings aligns with visual evidence: 'striking yellow and black striped wings and distinctive tail extensions' for Papilio xuthus and 'dark brown/black coloring with subtle yellow spotting along the wing edges' for Papilio polytes.
User's mention of 'pinned specimens in a black wooden frame with glass protection, mounted on a cream-colored background' is accurately reflected in the images.
User's assessment of 'minor wear' on the frame and 'antique natural history collection aesthetic' is supported by the visible condition of the frame edges and overall presentation.
User's estimated time period of '1970' is plausible for this style of framed insect display.