Demophon Prepona & Brassolis Exotic Butterfly (Archaeoprepona demophon, Brassolis sophorae) – Antique Hand-Colored Engraving

Demophon Prepona & Brassolis: Electric Blue and Golden Bands in Tropical Contrast

This original 1835 hand-colored copper engraving depicts two remarkable tropical butterflies: Archaeoprepona demophon, commonly known as the Demophon Prepona, and Brassolis sophorae, a large Neotropical species closely related to owl butterflies. The plate forms part of Exotic Butterflies, produced under the scientific direction of Hippolyte Lucas and engraved by Pauquet. On the original plate, these species appear under the historical names Papilio lycaon and Brassolis sophorae.

Presented in a clean vertical arrangement, the composition highlights a striking visual contrast between the two specimens. The engraving reflects the refined aesthetic of nineteenth-century natural history illustration, where bold coloration and scientific precision were combined to create images both informative and visually captivating.

With its dramatic interplay of deep black, electric blue, and golden yellow tones, this engraving possesses a strong decorative presence. It stands out as a refined piece of antique butterfly wall art, ideal for interiors seeking a bold yet elegant natural history accent.

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Visual and Aesthetic Analysis

The upper butterfly, Archaeoprepona demophon, is defined by its deep velvety black wings intersected by luminous cobalt-blue patches and bold golden bands. The geometry of these color blocks creates a striking visual rhythm, giving the insect a modern, almost graphic quality that feels surprisingly contemporary.

Below, Brassolis sophorae introduces a warmer palette of rich chestnut brown and amber tones, accented by soft golden patches near the forewings. Its broader, rounded wing shape contrasts with the sharper geometry above, creating a harmonious balance between intensity and warmth within the composition.

About the Species

Species such as Archaeoprepona demophon were highly prized in nineteenth-century collections for their vivid coloration and strong visual contrast. Their bold patterns made them particularly appealing to both scientists and collectors fascinated by tropical biodiversity.

Illustrations like those in Lucas’s Exotic Butterflies played a crucial role in documenting and disseminating knowledge of exotic species. These engravings remain outstanding examples of antique butterfly engraving and refined natural history illustration, bridging science and decorative art.

Condition Report

Very good antique condition. Fresh original hand-coloring with strong engraved impression. Printed on original nineteenth-century paper. Minor age toning consistent with the 1835 publication. Well-preserved examples of this quality are becoming increasingly scarce, particularly with such fresh color and clarity.

Details

• Scientific direction: Hippolyte Lucas
• Artist & engraver: Pauquet
• Work: Exotic Butterflies
• Species: Demophon Prepona & Brassolis (Archaeoprepona demophon, Brassolis sophorae)
• Historical names on plate: Papilio lycaon, Brassolis sophorae
• Year: 1835
• Technique: Original copper engraving, entirely hand-colored
• Paper: Original 19th-century laid paper
• Watermark: None present
• Sheet size: approx. 24 × 15 cm