"Dragons in Balance" 10x10 Framed Butterflies by Chris Lee

In Dragons in Balance, Chris Lee arranges four Byasa alcinous — commonly called Dragon Swallowtails — in a harmonious mirrored diamond. The placement evokes a sense of rhythm and unity, as if the butterflies are caught mid-dance. With creamy white wings adorned by charcoal spots and bold crimson crescents, these ethereal creatures seem to pulse with energy against the grounding warmth of their backdrop.

The overall design feels at once ancient and modern — a natural mandala framed in sleek silver. Lee’s symmetrical composition draws attention not only to the unique tail extensions and speckled patterns of each butterfly, but also to the inherent beauty of repetition in nature.

Butterfly Identification:

• Species: Byasa alcinous (Common Windmill, a type of Dragon Swallowtail)

• Range: East and Southeast Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan

• Traits: Cream-white wings with black markings, long tail-like extensions, distinctive red submarginal spots, slow and graceful flyers, often mimicking toxic butterflies

Framing Details:

• Outer Frame: Brushed silver with a clean, contemporary profile

• Inner Mat: Crisp white border that separates the display and draws the eye inward

• Background: Textured russet-brown fabric that complements the butterflies’ warm tones and bold patterning

• Front Panel: Clear glass, as consistent with all of Lee’s entomological artworks

• Presentation: Four butterflies, mirrored in a diamond arrangement, creating a symmetrical, meditative focal point