Vintage 1845 Entomological Handcolored Engraving of Bee and Wasp Species

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Vintage 1845 Entomological Handcolored Engraving of Bee and Wasp Species

About the Item

The engraving is a meticulously handcolored illustration from 1845, showcasing a collection of hymenopterans, which includes various bees and wasps. It features eleven different species, each labeled with its scientific name in French. The subjects are rendered with precision, highlighting the distinctive features of each insect, from the delicate veining in the wings to the segmentation of the bodies and the fine setae (hairs). At the center of the composition is a large, detailed depiction of a bee, complete with bands of yellow and black on its abdomen. Surrounding this central figure are smaller, yet equally detailed, illustrations of various species. The arrangement of the insects provides a visual balance, allowing each specimen to be appreciated individually. The color palette is naturalistic, with subtle gradations and hues that suggest the artist was attempting to capture the true colors of these creatures. The handcoloring enhances the detail, giving depth to the engravings and making them stand out against the creamy background of the paper. Despite the age of the print, the colors remain vibrant, suggesting that it has been well-preserved, possibly kept out of direct sunlight and in stable conditions. The paper shows signs of aging, with a gentle yellowing and perhaps some foxing (age-related brown spots), which is common in paper of this period. The edges of the paper have some wear, but the main body of the artwork appears to be in good condition, with no significant tears or damage. This engraving would have been both educational, serving as a tool for entomologists and naturalists of the era to study these species, and decorative, displaying the beauty and diversity of insects in an era when such details were often unknown to the general public. It is a fine example of the intersection of art and science during the 19th century. This print not only serves as a scientific record but also as a work of art, reflecting the dual interests of the Victorian era in both natural history and illustration. It is a remarkable piece that would be a significant addition to any collection of natural history art or an elegant decorative piece for those with a taste for the historic and the natural world. The style of the illustration is reminiscent of 19th-century scientific prints, which were often used in natural history books to document various species. 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)
Materials and Techniques:
Paper,Engraved
Period:
1840-1849
Date of Manufacture:
1845
Condition:
Good. The paper shows signs of aging, with a gentle yellowing and some light foxing (age-related brown spots), which is common in paper of this period. The edges of the paper have some wear.
Seller Location:
Langweer, NL
Reference Number:
Seller: BG-13261-621stDibs: LU3054337683622