Tray (2) - Pair of Vintage Brazilian Wooden Inlaid Trays with Real Morpho Butterfly Wings (1930s–1950s) – - Wood, Glass

04
days
20
hours
57
minutes
22
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Constance Rousseau
Expert
Selected by Constance Rousseau

Master marquetry craftswoman with 4 years' expert experience. Trainee auctioneer at Sotheby's Paris.

Estimate  € 900 - € 1,000
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Description from the seller

Rare Pair of Brazilian Vintage Wooden Inlaid Trays with Genuine Morpho Butterfly Wings (1930s/1950s) – Elegant Art Deco

Step into the exotic charm of the last century with this splendid and rare pair of handmade serving trays, crafted in Brazil between the 1930s and 1950s. A perfect meeting point between the strict geometry of Art Deco and the organic sinuosity of Art Nouveau. This lot represents an exceptional work in historical and aesthetic value, closely linked to the world of artistic taxidermy and period entomology. The true heart of these pieces is the central mosaic, protected by original glass: a hypnotic composition entirely handmade using genuine butterfly wings.

The famous electric blue and iridescent Morpho hues stand out, expertly combined with warm, amber and iridescent tones of other native species. Under light, the colors constantly shift, creating a vibrant, lively, three-dimensional visual effect. The frame and the base are a masterpiece of cabinetmaking: a rich geometric inlay that blends various qualities of precious and exotic woods, chosen for their warm grains and natural color contrasts. A unique opportunity for collectors.

If once these objects were coveted luxury souvenirs for transatlantic travelers, today they have become extremely rare to find, especially in such conservatively good condition. Butterfly wings are delicate organic materials, often prone to fading or aging; finding a coordinated pair with different dimensions (52x33 cm and 47x28 cm) that still preserves such color vitality is a golden opportunity for Naturalia enthusiasts, lovers of exemplary taxidermy, and interior designers seeking a truly rare statement piece.

The trays are presented in generally good conservation condition, a factor that greatly enhances their rarity. They show fascinating and genuine signs of time that attest to their authenticity and nearly a century of history (as visible in the photos). They require only light surface cleaning or even a polish to shine again and regain their original splendor. The wings retain exceptional natural luster and iridescence.

Technical Specifications: Period: 1930s / 1950s (20th Century) Style: Art Deco / Art Nouveau / Antique Taxidermy. Origin: Brazil Materials: Various qualities of exotic fine woods, genuine butterfly wings (including blue Morpho), glass. Large Tray Dimensions: 52 x 33 cm Small Tray Dimensions: 47 x 28 cm. Generally good conservation state, with patina and signs of time. To be cleaned.

The pieces will be packed with the utmost care and protective materials to preserve the glass and the delicate organic structure during shipment, which will be via a well-known international courier and will be fully tracked and insured.

Rare Pair of Brazilian Vintage Wooden Inlaid Trays with Genuine Morpho Butterfly Wings (1930s/1950s) – Elegant Art Deco

Step into the exotic charm of the last century with this splendid and rare pair of handmade serving trays, crafted in Brazil between the 1930s and 1950s. A perfect meeting point between the strict geometry of Art Deco and the organic sinuosity of Art Nouveau. This lot represents an exceptional work in historical and aesthetic value, closely linked to the world of artistic taxidermy and period entomology. The true heart of these pieces is the central mosaic, protected by original glass: a hypnotic composition entirely handmade using genuine butterfly wings.

The famous electric blue and iridescent Morpho hues stand out, expertly combined with warm, amber and iridescent tones of other native species. Under light, the colors constantly shift, creating a vibrant, lively, three-dimensional visual effect. The frame and the base are a masterpiece of cabinetmaking: a rich geometric inlay that blends various qualities of precious and exotic woods, chosen for their warm grains and natural color contrasts. A unique opportunity for collectors.

If once these objects were coveted luxury souvenirs for transatlantic travelers, today they have become extremely rare to find, especially in such conservatively good condition. Butterfly wings are delicate organic materials, often prone to fading or aging; finding a coordinated pair with different dimensions (52x33 cm and 47x28 cm) that still preserves such color vitality is a golden opportunity for Naturalia enthusiasts, lovers of exemplary taxidermy, and interior designers seeking a truly rare statement piece.

The trays are presented in generally good conservation condition, a factor that greatly enhances their rarity. They show fascinating and genuine signs of time that attest to their authenticity and nearly a century of history (as visible in the photos). They require only light surface cleaning or even a polish to shine again and regain their original splendor. The wings retain exceptional natural luster and iridescence.

Technical Specifications: Period: 1930s / 1950s (20th Century) Style: Art Deco / Art Nouveau / Antique Taxidermy. Origin: Brazil Materials: Various qualities of exotic fine woods, genuine butterfly wings (including blue Morpho), glass. Large Tray Dimensions: 52 x 33 cm Small Tray Dimensions: 47 x 28 cm. Generally good conservation state, with patina and signs of time. To be cleaned.

The pieces will be packed with the utmost care and protective materials to preserve the glass and the delicate organic structure during shipment, which will be via a well-known international courier and will be fully tracked and insured.

Details

Era
1400-1900
Over 200 years old
No
Number of objects
2
Material
Glass, Wood
Model
Pair of Vintage Brazilian Wooden Inlaid Trays with Real Morpho Butterfly Wings (1930s–1950s) –
Country of origin
Brazil
Style
Art Deco
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
3 cm
Width
52 cm
Depth
33 cm
Estimated period
1930-1950
Sold by
ItalyVerified
470
Objects sold
100%
Private

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