Antique Brazilian Art Deco Butterfly Wing Tray (Blue Morpho)

Antique Brazilian Art Deco Butterfly Wing Tray – Blue Morpho – Geometric Design – c.1930s–1950s

A beautiful and increasingly collectible antique Brazilian butterfly wing tray dating from approximately the 1930s–1950s.

Unlike the more common scenic Rio de Janeiro examples, this tray features a striking abstract geometric Art Deco composition, created using real Blue Morpho butterfly wings arranged in a highly symmetrical radial design beneath the original glass.

The shimmering blue colour is completely natural and comes from the microscopic structure of the Morpho butterfly wings, producing an iridescent effect that changes from brilliant blue to violet and bronze depending on the light.

The tray retains its original hardwood frame with marquetry border, integral handles and original backing. The geometric design is exceptionally decorative and works equally well as a serving tray, coffee table display or wall piece.

Examples of this quality are often attributed by dealers to the workshops of Daniel Teixeira, one of Brazil’s best-known butterfly-wing artisans, although this example is not signed or labelled, so I am selling it as an unsigned Brazilian workshop piece.

Details:

Brazil
c.1930s–1950s
Genuine Blue Morpho butterfly wings beneath glass
Original hardwood tray with marquetry inlay
Original backing
Abstract geometric / Art Deco design
Excellent iridescent colour
Some minor wing losses consistent with age, which are common on authentic examples and do not detract from the overall display.

A scarce and highly decorative piece of Brazilian natural history and Art Deco design that is becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly in this geometric pattern.

Collection welcome, or can be carefully packed for postage at the buyer’s expense.