The Peacock Butterfly is common in Europe and is easily identified by the large eyespots on the hind wings. The eyespots are designed to startle or confuse would be predators into thinking it is a much larger animal. If the predator does take a bite, it is usually directed towards the eyespot. The delicate wings may tear or get damaged during the attack but it allows the butterfly to break free and flee for its life.
Moths and butterflies belong to the classification of Insects called Lepidoptera. Lepidoptera is a latin word which means "scaled wing". When magnified under a microscope the scales of the wing structure are easy to see. For this series of paintings I did the background by looking under a microscope and drew the individual wing pattern and structure in pencil while placing the colorful butterfly on the surface in watercolor. The original has been sold but is available in 3 sizes of fine art reproduction canvas prints. Please look through the rest of the gallery to see other images from the series. They make a great sets for your home decor.
Fine Art Reproductions in Multiple Sizes Are Available HERE
