Items Similar to Arachnid & Insect Engravings: Stunning Hand-Colored Natural History Art, 1832
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 6
Arachnid & Insect Engravings: Stunning Hand-Colored Natural History Art, 1832
About the Item
Rare Antique Natural History Prints: Arachnids and Insects in Stunning Detail
This set of three small original antique engravings from 1832 showcases the fascinating world of arachnids and insects, offering a remarkable blend of scientific precision and artistic beauty. These prints are part of Gottlieb Tobias Wilhelm’s monumental *Unterhaltungen aus der Naturgeschichte*, a 25-volume masterpiece of natural history published from 1777 to the early 1800s. The work features 1,469 meticulously detailed illustrations produced by the renowned Augsburg printmakers, celebrated as the European Image Factory.
Based on the engravings, here are some possible identifications of the creatures depicted:
1. The first engraving prominently features arachnids, including a harvestman (Opiliones), identified by its long, thin legs and central body. Other species appear to be mites or ticks (Acari), with their rounded bodies and small size. The detailed depiction of their life stages and body structures adds to the scientific accuracy of the piece.
2. The second engraving illustrates various insects, such as water striders (Gerridae) and a large water bug (Belostomatidae), known for their aquatic habitats. Also visible are smaller beetles and nymph-like figures that may represent larval stages of aquatic insects.
3. The third engraving highlights an intriguing mix of terrestrial and aquatic insects. The central figure resembles a silverfish (Lepisma saccharina) with its elongated body and antennae. Other species include centipede-like creatures, possibly diplurans or springtails, which are often found in moist environments.
These engravings focus on the diversity of arachnids and insects, showcasing their physical characteristics and ecological roles. The meticulous attention to detail in each organism reflects the engravers’ dedication to accurately portraying natural specimens, providing both scientific insight and artistic beauty. The inclusion of various life stages and anatomical features enhances the educational and visual appeal of these prints.
The prints are crafted using the traditional copperplate engraving technique, which enabled the creation of fine lines and intricate details. Each print was then hand-colored by skilled artisans, resulting in vibrant, lifelike depictions of arachnids, insects, and their habitats. This labor-intensive process speaks to the exceptional craftsmanship of the period.
What makes these prints particularly compelling is their scientific and artistic value. The engravings provide a detailed study of diverse species, including spiders, beetles, and other insects, often depicted alongside their natural environments or life cycles. They offer a unique glimpse into 19th-century natural history and the growing interest in cataloging the natural world. These prints are both a historical artifact and a striking visual statement, ideal for collectors, entomology enthusiasts, or those seeking to add timeless charm to their decor.
Condition: In very good condition with minor age-related toning and crisp impressions, typical for their age.
Framing Tips:
Use archival-quality mats and frames to preserve the integrity of these delicate prints. Neutral or earth-toned matting with gold or wooden frames will complement their vintage appeal. UV-protective glass is recommended to protect the vibrant hand-coloring. Displaying these as a cohesive set will create a captivating focal point in any space.
- Dimensions:Height: 4.34 in (11 cm)Width: 7.09 in (18 cm)Depth: 0.02 in (0.5 mm)
- Sold As:Set of 3
- Materials and Techniques:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1832
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Condition: The prints are in very good condition with minor age-related toning, typical of their time, and sharp, clear impressions.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13292-165, -166 -1671stDibs: LU3054343556392
About the Seller
5.0
Recognized Seller
These prestigious sellers are industry leaders and represent the highest echelon for item quality and design.
Gold Seller
Premium sellers maintaining a 4.3+ rating and 24-hour response times
Established in 2009
1stDibs seller since 2017
2,467 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Langweer, Netherlands
- Return Policy
Authenticity Guarantee
In the unlikely event there’s an issue with an item’s authenticity, contact us within 1 year for a full refund. DetailsMoney-Back Guarantee
If your item is not as described, is damaged in transit, or does not arrive, contact us within 7 days for a full refund. Details24-Hour Cancellation
You have a 24-hour grace period in which to reconsider your purchase, with no questions asked.Vetted Professional Sellers
Our world-class sellers must adhere to strict standards for service and quality, maintaining the integrity of our listings.Price-Match Guarantee
If you find that a seller listed the same item for a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.Trusted Global Delivery
Our best-in-class carrier network provides specialized shipping options worldwide, including custom delivery.More From This Seller
View AllRare Antique Natural History Prints: Fascinating Insects and Life Cycles, 1832
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Rare Antique Natural History Prints: Fascinating Insects and Life Cycles
Description:
This set of four small original antique prints from 1832 offers an extraordinary gli...
Category
Antique 1830s Prints
Materials
Paper
Captivating Natural History Prints: Insects, Life Cycles and Rare Details, 1832
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Captivating Antique Natural History Prints: Insects, Life Cycles, and Rare Details
Description: This set of four small original antique prints from 1832 offers an extraord...
Category
Antique 1830s Prints
Materials
Paper
Exquisite Antique Natural History Prints: Insects, Larvae, and Life Cycles, 1832
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Exquisite Antique Natural History Prints: Insects, Larvae, and Life Cycles
Description: This set of four original antique prints from 1832 is a captivating exploration of ...
Category
Antique 1830s Prints
Materials
Paper
Small and Rare Natural History Prints Featuring Insects and Plants, 1832
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Rare 19th-Century Natural History Prints Featuring Insects and Plants
Description: This set of four original antique prints offers a captivating glimpse into the rich detail ...
Category
Antique 1830s Prints
Materials
Paper
Small Natural History Prints: Insects and Life Cycles in Exquisite Detail, 1832
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Stunning Antique Natural History Prints: Insects and Life Cycles in Exquisite Detail
Description: This set of four original antique prints, published in 1832, offers a capt...
Category
Antique 1830s Prints
Materials
Paper
Intricate Arachnids and Insects: Hand-Colored Engraving Published in 1805
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Engraving of Arachnids and Insects from Early 19th-Century Natural History Collection
Description:
This detailed engraving, part of an early 19th-century natural history co...
Category
Antique Early 1800s Prints
Materials
Paper
$91 Sale Price
20% Off
You May Also Like
Three Italian Hand Colored Engraving Prints with Metallic Embellishments
By Giuseppe Vasi
Located in Miami, FL
Three color limited edition engraving prints in vivid shades of blue, coral, olive green and beige all depicting Le Grand Canal Venezia, Italy or Venice, Italy.
These wonderful c...
Category
20th Century Italian Decorative Art
Materials
Glass, Wood, Paper
$760 Sale Price / item
20% Off
J S Prout, the Upper Goulburn, Victoria', Hand Colored Engraving, U K, 1874
By John Skinner Prout, N.W.S. 1
Located in Chatham, ON
John Skinner Prout (1805-1876) - 'the upper Goulburn, Victoria' - antique steel plate engraving after a painting by J. S. Prout - from 'Australia' by Edwin Carton Booth - hand colore...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Prints
Materials
Paint, Paper
Pair French 18th Century Hand Colored Engravings of Pipe Smokers
By Jacques Grasset de Saint-Sauveur
Located in Stamford, CT
Pair of hand colored engravings by Jacques Grasset de Sainte-Sauveur, 1797 Paris publication, 'Costumes de Different Pays', (Costumes of Different Countries). This pair depicting two...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century French Neoclassical Prints
Materials
Paper
J. Kip and L. Knyff 18th Century Hand Colored Engravings, Set of 4
By Johannes Kip
Located in North Palm Beach, FL
Set of four antique hand-colored engravings. "Britannia Illustrata," the publication in which these prints originally appeared, was one of the most important topographical works of t...
Category
Antique Mid-18th Century English Baroque Prints
Materials
Paper
1825 Hand-Colored Aquatint Engraving by T. Sutherland "South Sea Whale Fishery"
By William John Huggins
Located in Morristown, NJ
A hand-colored aquatint engraving dated January 1, 1825 and engraved by T. Sutherland, London. Titled "South Sea Whale Fishery", after a painting by Will...
Category
Antique 1820s English George IV Prints
Materials
Glass, Wood, Giltwood, Paper
C. 1625 After Antoine de Pluvinel, "Henry IV, Mounted", Hand Colored Engraving
Located in Morristown, NJ
Early 17th century, French hand colored equestrian engraving. After Antoine de Pluvinel (French, 1552-1620), "Henry IV, Mounted", figure 42 from "L'Instruction du Roy en l'Exercice de Monter a Cheval", c. 1625, matted and framed under UF-3 plexiglass (blocks approx. 97% of UV) , gallery label verso. Figures from this publication have sold at Christie's. Those were not hand colored.
A highly detailed engraving with the French King Henry 1V the central figure. Mounted on horseback, Le Roy (the King) is watched by no less than 10 courtiers some of whom are mounted on horseback, all of which are named in the engraving.
Antoine de Pluvinel (1552, Crest, Dauphine - 24 August 1620) was the first of the French riding masters, and has had great influence on modern dressage. He wrote L’Instruction du Roy en L'exercice de Monter à Cheval ("instruction of the King in the art of riding"), was tutor to King Louis XIII, and is credited with the invention of using two pillars, as well as using shoulder-in to increase suppleness.
In 1594, Pluvinel founded the "Academie d'Equitation" near what is now Place des Pyramides. There, the French nobility was trained not only in horsemanship, but also in all the accomplishments (dancing, fashionable dressing, etc.) It can be said that Pluvinel's influence on the aristocracy lasted from the late 16th century to the 17th century. Richelieu, the future Prime Minister of King Louis XIII attended the Academie; so did William, Duke of Cavendish.
Pluvinel's book was published posthumously by the Flemish engraver Crispijn van de Passe II and the royal valet de chambre...
Category
Antique Early 17th Century French Baroque Prints
Materials
Plexiglass, Boxwood, Paint, Paper
