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18th Century Engraving of Sperm Whales, by Bertuch, 1790

About the Item

18th Century Engraving of Sperm Whales, by Bertuch, 1790, an engraved zoological plate depicting what was thought to be two species of Sperm Whale (Physeter), the Cylindrical Pot-Whale and the Trumpo, comprising a copper plate engraving then hand colored, matted and mounted in old gilt frame with eglomise glass. A second companion engraving is also available. Friedrich Johann Justin Bertuch (30 September 1747 – 3 April 1822) was a German publisher and patron of the arts. Between 1790 and 1830 Betruch printed the "Bilderbuch für Kinder" in 12 volumes. An educational work, it appeared in monthly instalments and aimed to "spread the knowledge of the epochs out before children" with 1185 pages and 6000 illustrations. It was in essence a phenomenal encyclopedia of natural history and knowledge. This plate is from Vol. IV, No. 92 in Chapter 38 - The Fishes. The print remains in excellent condition. Measures: 8-1/4 in H x 6-7/8 in W Framed: 17-1/2 in H x 16-1/4 in W
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 17.5 in (44.45 cm)Width: 16.25 in (41.28 cm)Depth: 0.88 in (2.24 cm)
  • Style:
    Other (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved,Hand-Painted
  • Place of Origin:
    Germany
  • Period:
    1790-1799
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1790
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Nantucket, MA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: AD - BO - 19a1stDibs: LU903936855482

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