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Antique Handcolored Engraving of Amphibious Eels and Snakes, c.180

$168.14
£123.83
€140
CA$228.74
A$254.18
CHF 133.19
MX$3,117.05
NOK 1,698.79
SEK 1,598.16
DKK 1,065.80
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About the Item

Description: This original handcolored copperplate engraving illustrates four species of amphibious or aquatic eels and snake-like creatures in dynamic poses. It is part of Friedrich Johann Bertuch’s Bilderbuch für Kinder (Picture Book for Children), a celebrated 12-volume natural history encyclopedia published between 1790 and 1830. The detailed depictions emphasize the anatomical and behavioral diversity of these creatures, blending scientific precision with artistic finesse. The engraving features: 1. A creature resembling the European Eel (Anguilla anguilla), noted for its elongated, smooth body and narrow head. 2. A snake-like creature with yellow markings, possibly a Yellow-Spotted Water Snake (Hydrodynastes gigas). 3. A coiled species resembling a Caecilian, a limbless amphibian commonly found in tropical regions. 4. A unique species with a broad, bulbous head, likely a South American Lungfish (Lepidosiren paradoxa), known for its ability to breathe air. This rare engraving is a valuable addition to collections of antique zoological illustrations, natural history art, or educational prints. Condition Report Good condition. General age-related toning, minor edge wear, no text on verso. Colors remain vivid. Please review images carefully.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 7.68 in (19.5 cm)Width: 9.26 in (23.5 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1800
  • Condition:
    Good condition. General age-related toning, minor edge wear, no text on verso. Colors remain vivid. Please review images carefully.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13997-191stDibs: LU3054342551922

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