Minerals & Crystals Print: Quartz, Calcite, Ore Rocks, Crystal Shapes – Antique 1867
This detailed antique print depicts a variety of minerals, rocks, ores, and crystal shapes rendered in fine hand-coloured engravings. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, and published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Created for educational use, this plate introduced 19th-century students to mineralogy and crystallography, showing both rock specimens and geometric crystal models.
The labelled figures include:
1–6. Crystal forms and geometric models (various prism, pyramid, and rhombohedron shapes used in mineralogy)
7\. Anthracite coal
8\. Bituminous coal
8a. Jet
8b. Lignite
9\. Sulphur ore
10\. Iron pyrite (fool’s gold)
10a. Iron ore with gangue
10b. Hematite ore
11\. Quartz crystal cluster
12\. Feldspar crystal
13\. Mica
14\. Calcite crystal
15\. Galena (lead ore)
16\. Malachite (copper carbonate)
17\. Rock crystal (quartz group)
18\. Siderite crystal
19\. Red jasper
20\. Petrified wood
21\. Baryte (heavy spar)
22\. Serpentine
23\. Garnet cluster
24–26. Further geometric crystal models showing mineral habit
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print shows precise linear details and realistic mineral colours, capturing each sample’s luster, cleavage, and fracture for geological identification. These plates served as essential educational references before photographic mineral guides were widely available.
Condition summary:
Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Framing tips:
Frame this mineralogy print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its fine engraved details and earthy mineral tones. For traditional settings, a gold frame adds antique warmth and museum-like sophistication. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colours and prevent further toning. This antique natural history print will enrich any geology, mineral art...
Category
1860s Antique German Wall Decorations