‘Common’ but far from ordinary.

Prevalent, familiar, and distinctive, resembling no other. The Mourning Cloak butterfly, Nymphalis antiopa antiopa.

The borders look like the hem of petticoats peeking out from under the dark cloak or dress worn by those in mourning. However, there’s no reason to be sad when you see this beauty, as it is one of the first butterflies to appear in spring, announcing the warmer weather and the return of our garden blooms.

This butterfly lives in North America and Europe. It is a migrant to the UK, where it is known as the Camberwell Beauty.

It is also the official state butterfly of Montana.

Product Description:

A combination of machine stitching and hand embroidery, scraps of dark linens and creamy yellow cotton went into creating this textile version of the Mourning Cloak. Wingspan 12 cm/ 4.75 inches. Backed with felt. Brooch clasp on the underside. Soft, lightweight yet sturdy.

Join me in donating! 5 euros for each one sold will be donated to The Nature Conservancy, whose work includes protection of habitats in order to “preserve the diversity of life on Earth.” The Mourning Cloak is not an endangered butterfly, but she can help those that are.

Encounter the extraordinary in ‘common’ species.