Carlos Zipperer Attributed Brazilian Morpho Butterfly Wing Marquetry Tray 1930s

A spectacular vintage Brazilian butterfly-wing serving tray, attributed to the workshop of Carlos Zipperer Sobrinho, and believed to date from approximately the 1930s-1950s.

This substantial tray measures approximately 52 cm × 33.5 cm × 4.5 cm and features a beautifully constructed wooden frame with integral carrying handles and an intricate geometric marquetry border.

Beneath the protective glass is an extraordinary decorative composition created using genuine butterfly wings, including intensely iridescent blue Morpho wings. The wings have been carefully arranged into large radiating floral forms, together with butterfly motifs, producing an almost kaleidoscopic design.

The appearance changes dramatically according to the direction and intensity of the light. At some angles the wings appear predominantly bronze and golden brown, while at others they erupt into vivid electric blue, turquoise and violet.

The construction, dimensions, marquetry and butterfly-wing decoration closely correspond with documented trays produced by the Brazilian workshop of Carlos Zipperer Sobrinho. Comparable labelled Zipperer examples survive, including examples of almost identical dimensions. As this particular tray does not retain a visible maker’s label, it is being offered as attributed to Carlos Zipperer Sobrinho rather than definitively signed.

Carlos Zipperer Sobrinho operated in São Bento do Sul, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and his workshop became associated with finely made decorative wooden objects incorporating Brazilian butterfly wings. Academic research records Zipperer-attributed trays made from imbuia wood with marquetry borders and Morpho butterfly-wing decoration.

Approximate measurements:

* Length: 52 cm
* Width: 33.5 cm
* Height/depth: 4.5 cm

The tray is in good vintage condition with age-related wear consistent with its age and use. The butterfly-wing decoration displays beautifully beneath the glass. Please study all photographs carefully as these form an important part of the condition description.

A particularly striking piece of Brazilian decorative art and an impressive example of butterfly-wing craftsmanship. It could be displayed as a decorative tray, cabinet piece or wall-mounted artwork.