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Turtle Print of Spiny Softshell and Green Sea Turtle, c.1850, Orbigny
About the Item
Turtle Print of Spiny Softshell and Green Sea Turtle, c.1850, Orbigny
This beautifully hand-colored engraving, Reptiles Pl. 2, features two distinctive turtle species: the Spiny Softshell Turtle (*Gymnopus spinifer*, now classified as *Apalone spinifera*) and the Green Sea Turtle (*Chelonia mydas*). Created for the *Dictionnaire Universel d’Histoire Naturelle*, this plate was published in Paris around 1850 under the editorial direction of Charles Dessalines d'Orbigny. It is a fine example of 19th-century French scientific illustration.
Figure 1, at the top, shows the Spiny Softshell Turtle in two views: the dorsal (top) and ventral (underside). The softshell turtle is characterized by its flat, leathery carapace, long neck, and snorkel-like nose. Native to North America, it prefers freshwater rivers and lakes and is known for its speed and agility in water. The artist skillfully captures the contrast between its camouflaged back and the pale, intricate markings on its plastron. The extended limbs, claws, and textured skin are rendered with fine anatomical precision.
Figure 2 below illustrates the Green Sea Turtle (*Chelonia mydas*), shown moving along a rocky coastal environment. This large marine species is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical seas and is one of the few species in the genus *Chelonia*. The turtle’s rounded, dark carapace is shaded with hints of green and yellow, reflecting its name. The powerful flippers and domed shell emphasize its aquatic adaptation and graceful movement through the ocean. Shell fragments and corals in the background complete the coastal scene.
Both species are drawn by Oudart, a skilled naturalist illustrator, and engraved with great care. The hand coloring adds visual richness and depth, making this a standout plate for collectors of herpetological or marine-themed prints.
Condition Summary
Light foxing around outer edges. Image area clean, details sharp, and colors vivid. Strong plate impression and well-preserved paper without tears or folds.
Framing Tips
Frame in dark green or walnut wood with a cream or seafoam mat to enhance the aquatic tones. UV-protective glass is recommended to maintain the vibrancy of the original hand coloring. Perfect for a coastal or natural history-inspired setting.
- 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:Light foxing around outer edges. Image area clean, details sharp, and colors vivid. Strong plate impression and well-preserved paper without tears or folds.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13584-641stDibs: LU3054345338202
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