The Great South Sea Caterpillar transformd into a Bath Butterfly Oil Painting by James Gillray

The Great South Sea Caterpillar transformd into a Bath Butterfly

James GillrayItem # 174021
Museum Quality Hand Painted Oil Reproduction

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$310.70

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$217.49
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Size:
16 X 24 in
9 Frame Options:
Unframed
$
$
Painting Size: 12" x 16"
16" x 24"
20" x 30"
24" x 36"
28" x 41"
32" x 47"
36" x 53"
40" x 59"
Frame: Unframed - Rolled in a tube
Unframed
GA1326
GA1306
GA1315
GA1510
GA1503
GA1505
GA1307
GA1506
GA1509
GA1323
GA1313
GA1508
GA1330
Gallery Wrap
Finished Size: 30" x 34"
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  • About Reproduction

    Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Great South Sea Caterpillar transformd into a Bath Butterfly", originally brought to life by the talented James Gillray. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to James Gillray and his artistic vision.

    Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

  • Painting Description

    "The Great South Sea Caterpillar transform'd into a Bath Butterfly" is a satirical print by the British caricaturist and printmaker James Gillray, created in 1795. The artwork is a vivid example of Gillray's sharp wit and intricate engraving skills, which he often employed to comment on politics, society, and notable figures of his time. The print depicts a transformation scene where a caterpillar, representing a notorious figure or a political situation, metamorphoses into a butterfly, symbolizing a change in status or circumstance, often with a mocking or critical undertone.

    In this particular print, Gillray takes aim at the speculative financial bubble known as the South Sea Bubble, which saw the shares of the South Sea Company—an organization with a monopoly on trade in the South Seas—inflate rapidly before collapsing in 1720. The caterpillar likely represents the greed and folly of investors who were drawn into the speculative frenzy, while the butterfly may symbolize the ephemeral nature of the wealth and status they sought, which vanished as quickly as it appeared.

    Gillray's work is characterized by its detailed and often grotesque caricatures, and "The Great South Sea Caterpillar transform'd into a Bath Butterfly" is no exception. The print is rich with allegory and symbolism, inviting viewers to ponder the moral and social implications of the events it portrays. As with many of Gillray's prints, this piece would have been displayed in print shop windows, contributing to the public discourse of the time through visual satire.

    The print remains an important historical artifact, offering insight into the economic and social climate of 18th-century Britain, as well as the enduring power of visual satire to shape public opinion. It is held in various collections, including the British Museum, and continues to be studied by scholars interested in art history, political satire, and the cultural context of the Georgian era.

  • Lead Time & Shipping

    When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

  • Return & Refund

    We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.

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100% hand-painted

100% hand-painted

Each and every piece of our artwork is entirely hand-painted by artists with over a decade of experience. Every painting is infused with a unique personality and an unrivaled value, showcasing art in its rawest and most authentic form just for you.

Museum quality

Museum quality

We adhere to museum-level standards in our creation. Each piece of work is reproduced using techniques as close as possible to the original, coupled with the finest paints and canvases, making the color, structure, and texture of every replica as similar as possible to the original.

Top-level materials

Top-level materials

We insist on choosing the best quality paints and canvases from around the world. These selected materials not only offer unparalleled color saturation and durability, but also ensure that the reproductions can withstand the test of time. Only the finest materials can replicate the most authentic artworks possible.

Online proofing

Online proofing

We offer online proofing services, allowing you to be hands-on with every step of the artistic journey. You can personally review and suggest tweaks, and we'll meticulously fine-tune every detail until it aligns with your vision to the tee.

Frequently asked questions

  • How similar are your oil painting reproductions to the original artworks?

    We pride ourselves on achieving a high level of accuracy in our reproductions. While it's nearly impossible to replicate an artwork 100%, our skilled artists ensure that our reproductions capture the essence, texture, and colors of the original as closely as possible.
  • Can I customize a specific artwork that's not in your catalog?

    Absolutely! We offer custom painting services. If there's a specific artwork or portrait you'd like, simply provide us with the details or an image, and our artists will recreate it for you.
  • If I want to modify certain parts of an existing artwork (like colors or size), is it possible?

    Yes, we offer modification services. Just let us know your preferences, and our artists will make the necessary adjustments to meet your requirements.
  • How should I display my oil painting reproduction to achieve the best effect?

    For the best visual impact, hang your painting at eye level in a well-lit area, preferably with indirect natural light or soft artificial lighting. Avoid direct sunlight and high humidity areas to protect the artwork.
  • Can I see a draft of the artwork before it's finished?

    Yes, we offer online proofing services. Once the initial draft is ready, we'll send you a preview. You can provide feedback, and our artists will make adjustments accordingly.
  • How do I clean and maintain my oil painting reproduction?

    Gently dust the painting with a soft brush or lint-free cloth. Avoid using chemicals or water. If the painting requires deeper cleaning, consult a professional.