Beetles of the World: A Collection of Handcolored Engravings from 1845

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Beetles of the World: A Collection of Handcolored Engravings from 1845

About the Item

These prints are a collection of meticulously handcolored engravings from the year 1845, each depicting various species of beetles. The level of detail in each illustration is exquisite, with precise linework that captures the intricate textures of the beetles' exoskeletons and the fine structure of their limbs and antennae. The coloring is vibrant and appears to be true to the natural hues of the beetles, suggesting that the artist paid great attention to accuracy and the aesthetic presentation of each subject. The beetles are presented in a scientific manner, with each print featuring multiple specimens in various orientations, allowing viewers to appreciate the differences in morphology and coloration. The backgrounds of the prints are a clean, neutral tone that doesn't detract from the subjects themselves. Each beetle is accompanied by a label, likely indicating its scientific name and possibly other taxonomic information, which would have been of particular interest to naturalists and entomologists of the time. As historical scientific artifacts, these prints demonstrate the intersection of art and science in the 19th century and reflect the scholarly endeavor to catalog and understand the natural world. The careful preservation of color and form in these engravings suggests that they were not only educational tools but also valued for their artistic merit. The species depicted in the prints are a diverse collection of beetles, each showcasing distinct features that are characteristic of their genus or family. Due to the scientific nomenclature provided with the prints, which may be outdated, it is not possible to accurately match all the species names with modern classifications without further entomological expertise. However, based on the visuals, here are some general descriptions of the types of beetles depicted: 1. **Rosalia alpina (Rosalia longicorn)** - Recognizable by its long antennae and distinctive blue-grey color with black spots, this species is a part of the longhorn beetle family. 2. **Lucanus cervus (Stag Beetle)** - Known for its large mandibles that resemble the antlers of a stag, this species is among the largest of the European beetles. 3. **Lamia textor (Weaver Beetle)** - A longhorn beetle with a long body and antennae, it is typically found in decaying wood. 4. **Trichius fasciatus (Bee Beetle)** - This beetle resembles a bumblebee with its fuzzy appearance and yellow and black banding. 5. **Cetonia aurata (Rose Chafer)** - A green metallic beetle commonly found in gardens, meadows, and hedgerows. 6. **Carabus violaceus (Violet Ground Beetle)** - A purple or violet colored beetle with a ground-dwelling habit, known for its beneficial role in controlling garden pests. 7. **Dorcus parallelipipedus (Lesser Stag Beetle)** - Similar to the stag beetle but smaller, with parallel-sided elytra. 8. **Dynastes hercules (Hercules Beetle)** - One of the largest flying insects, with a remarkable horn on its pronotum. 9. **Goliathus goliatus (Goliath Beetle)** - Considered one of the heaviest insects, with a striking pattern and large size. These are just a few examples, and each species would have a detailed profile based on its life cycle, habitat, and behavior. These prints serve as an excellent historical record of entomological interest and the biodiversity of beetles from that era. More info on the book in which it was published: The 'Dictionnaire Classique des Sciences Naturelles' by Pierre Auguste Joseph Drapiez stands as a remarkable testament to 19th-century natural sciences. Published in Brussels in 1845, this work represents an expansive collation of knowledge, building upon the pioneering works of Buffon, Daubenton, Lacepede, Cuvier, de Jussieu, and other influential naturalists. The prints within this compendium likely showcase a rich amalgamation of artistic precision and scientific accuracy. Drapiez, himself a Belgian naturalist, would have aimed for detailed representations of flora, fauna, and scientific phenomena, mirroring the illustrative styles prevalent during his time. Given the era's emphasis on illustration, these prints were likely engraved meticulously, possibly portraying intricate anatomical details or lifelike depictions of the natural world. With Drapiez's background in natural history, the prints might bear testament to his commitment to scientific authenticity, aiming to educate and inspire scholars and enthusiasts alike. These engravings would have complemented the text, offering visual aids that elucidate the concepts and specimens discussed in the volume. Overall, the prints of 'Dictionnaire Classique des Sciences Naturelles' likely serve as both artistic representations and invaluable scientific resources, encapsulating the essence of 19th-century natural history exploration and documentation.

Dimensions:
Height: 10.44 in (26.5 cm)Width: 6.7 in (17 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Materials and Techniques:
Paper,Engraved
Period:
1840-1849
Date of Manufacture:
1845
Condition:
Good, especially considering their age. No tears or significant creases. The prints are well-preserved with vibrant colors and clear details, showing some age-related discoloration and minimal foxing.
Seller Location:
Langweer, NL
Reference Number:
Seller: BG-13261-59, BG-13261-661stDibs: LU3054337684192