Card 5, Danais Archippus, from the Butterflies series (N183) issued by Wm. S. Kimball & Co. 1888

This chromolithograph card, published by Wm. S. Kimball & Co., presents us with an allegorical figure, Danais Archippus, adorned with the wings of a butterfly. The butterfly—a potent symbol of transformation—has fluttered through history, its delicate wings carrying layers of meaning. In ancient Greece, Psyche, the soul, was often depicted with butterfly wings, embodying the journey of the spirit. Consider the Christian tradition, where the butterfly represents resurrection, emerging from the chrysalis as Christ rose from the tomb. Yet, within this commercial context, its association with ephemeral beauty takes flight into uncharted territory, connecting this modern woman with the timeless allure of nature and mythology. The image acts as a cultural touchstone, evoking complex layers of collective memory and subconscious associations—a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. It's an invitation to reflect on the cyclical nature of symbols and their capacity to evolve and resurface throughout history.