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Reptile Print of Young Alligator and Wall Gecko, c.1850, by Orbigny
About the Item
Reptile Print of Young Alligator and Wall Gecko, c.1850, by Orbigny
This lively and well-observed 19th-century hand-colored engraving, Reptiles Pl. 3, features two distinct reptilian species: a young alligator (*Alligator lucius*, referred to here as *Caiman à museau de Brochet*) and a wall gecko (*Platydactylus muralis*). The plate was published around 1850 in the *Dictionnaire Universel d’Histoire Naturelle*, a monumental French natural history encyclopedia edited by Charles Dessalines d'Orbigny.
Figure 1, in the foreground, depicts a juvenile alligator on a rocky riverbank. The engraving captures the distinctive features of the species, including the elongated snout, robust body, and heavily scaled skin. Subtle hand-coloring in yellow, green, and grey brings the texture and strength of the reptile to life. The scene evokes the warm, marshy habitat of the American South, where young alligators often remain hidden near the water's edge for protection.
Figure 2, positioned on a raised rock, shows *Platydactylus muralis*, a species of wall gecko. Known for their ability to cling to vertical surfaces using specialized toe pads, these small reptiles are typically active at night and feed on insects. The print highlights the gecko’s agile limbs, large eyes, and lightly patterned skin, rendered in hues of green, brown, and ochre. The naturalistic pose and careful botanical background enhance the realism of the scene.
This plate was drawn by Oudart and engraved by Forget, with hand coloring skillfully applied to emphasize anatomical details and habitat context. Each print in this series was created as both a scientific record and an object of visual appeal, combining the disciplines of zoology and art.
A valuable addition for collectors of antique zoological prints or anyone interested in crocodilians and reptiles of the 19th-century scientific canon.
Condition Summary:
Fair conditon wiht foxing across the page but colors still vivid. No tears or repairs. Strong plate impression with fine detail intact. Patina rich.
Framing Tips:
Choose a medium to dark wood or natural frame. A warm ivory or tan mat will enhance the earthy tones of the illustration. UV glass is recommended to preserve the hand-applied colors and prevent further foxing from exposure.
- Dimensions:Height: 9.73 in (24.7 cm)Width: 6.3 in (16 cm)Depth: 0.4 in (1 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1850
- Condition:Fair conditon wiht foxing across the page but colors still vivid. No tears or repairs. Strong plate impression with fine detail intact.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13584-611stDibs: LU3054345337932
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