The artwork, titled “The Butterfly,” was created by William-Adolphe Bouguereau in 1893. It is an oil painting on canvas, measuring 93 x 66 cm, and is associated with the Academicism art movement. The painting falls under the genre of mythological paintings.
The artwork features a serene and introspective female figure, draped in a classical garment, seated in a natural outdoor setting. She is portrayed delicately interacting with a butterfly that has landed on her upper arm, symbolizing a moment of gentle connection with nature. The soft light and detailed rendering exemplify Bouguereau’s masterful technique and idealized aesthetics characteristic of the Academicism movement. The lush background contributes to the tranquil and harmonious atmosphere of the scene, reinforcing the mythological undertones of the painting.