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Antique Seashell Prints – Set of Ten 18th Century Marine Engravings, c.1770
$589.64per set
£436.54per set
€490per set
CA$816.40per set
A$891.31per set
CHF 467.28per set
MX$10,825.31per set
NOK 5,835.54per set
SEK 5,510.31per set
DKK 3,730.47per set
About the Item
Set of Ten Antique Engravings of Seashells and Marine Invertebrates from Diderot’s Encyclopédie, ca. 1770
An outstanding group of ten copperplate engravings from Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d’Alembert’s monumental Encyclopédie ou Dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers, Paris, circa 1770. These plates form part of the Histoire naturelle section devoted to mollusks and marine invertebrates, reflecting the Enlightenment fascination with seashells and the diversity of marine life.
The engravings display a remarkable variety of species, including spiral shells, nautilus forms, conical shells, scallops, mussels, and barnacles. Each plate isolates different groups and presents them in a clear scientific style, balancing accuracy with visual elegance. The delicate linework and shading emphasize the texture, patterns, and geometric perfection of these natural forms, which were widely admired in the 18th century both as objects of study and as prized collectibles for natural history cabinets.
The selection includes:
– Spiral and turret shells with fine whorled ornamentation
– Nautilus shells with their chambered interiors
– Bivalves such as scallops and mussels, shown in profile and interior views
– Exotic conical and elongated species, presented as comparative studies
– Barnacles and corals, emphasizing their connection to marine natural history
These engravings are important historical records of the classification of mollusks at a time when taxonomy was still in development. They reflect the encyclopedists’ ambition to compile and share knowledge of the natural world, combining scientific observation with refined copperplate artistry. Today, they are valued both for their contribution to the history of science and for their strong decorative appeal.
Condition report: All plates in good condition with strong platemarks. Some age-related toning, light foxing, and faint handling marks consistent with 18th-century folio engravings. Images remain sharp and well-defined. Offered as a set of ten separate folio sheets, unframed.
Framing tips: These ten engravings can be arranged as a dramatic wall ensemble or displayed in smaller groups. Matching frames with ivory or cream mounts create a unified presentation, while dark wood or black frames lend a scholarly atmosphere. For a refined effect, consider double matting with a soft sea-green or blue inner line to highlight the maritime theme.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Denis Diderot & Jean le Rond d’Alembert, Paris, ca. 1770
- Dimensions:Height: 15.36 in (39 cm)Width: 9.85 in (25 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
- Sold As:Set of 10
- Materials and Techniques:Paper,Engraved
- Place of Origin:
- Period:1770-1779
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1770
- Condition:Condition: All plates in good condition with strong platemarks. Some age-related toning, light foxing, and faint handling marks consistent with 18th-century folio engravings. Images remain sharp and well-defined. Offered as a set of ten sheets.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13494-14, etc1stDibs: LU3054346681232
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Langweer, Netherlands
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