Apatura Iris Originl Watercolor Painting - Purple Emperor Butterfly Art

The Purple Emperor - a study in subtile color and light.
Original watercolor painting of Apatura iris.

APATURA IRIS · THE SUBTLE BEAUTY

The Purple Emperor is famous for the striking violet-blue shimmer of the male.
But the butterfly I chose to paint is a female.
Her beauty is quieter — found in the more subtle colours, patterns and delicate details of her wings, with only some violet-blue shimmer here and there.
What is fascinating in itself: the violet-blue shimmer is created by the microscopic structure of the wing scales interacting with light. It is not simply a layer of purple pigment, and the effect changes depending on the angle of light and observation.
Perhaps that is why this butterfly feels like such a fitting subject for my work.

Sometimes you simply have to look closer.

THE ORIGINAL
This is the original watercolor painting from my first Butterfly Print Drop.
It is one of a kind and available only during this Drop.
After September 13, the original will no longer be available through my shop.

DETAILS
Original artwork - one of a kind
Schmincke high quality Watercolor on Hahnemühle cold pressed fine structured paper.
Original size: 30x30 cm /11,81x11,81 inches
Signed by the artist
Comes with certificate of authenticity

Available until September 13, 2026.