Oudart and Forget, Coral Snake and Egyptian Cobra, 1850s, Paper

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This dramatic and well-preserved hand-colored engraving, Reptiles Pl. 12, depicts two iconic venomous snakes: the Coral Snake (Elaps corallinus) and … Read more This dramatic and well-preserved hand-colored engraving, Reptiles Pl. 12, depicts two iconic venomous snakes: the Coral Snake (Elaps corallinus) and the Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje). Produced in Paris around 1850 for the *Dictionnaire Universel d’Histoire Naturelle* under the direction of Charles Dessalines d'Orbigny, this print combines scientific precision with artistic excellence. At the top of the print, figure 1 shows the Coral Snake, scientifically named *Elaps corallinus* at the time, now known as *Micrurus corallinus*. Native to South America, this species is well known for its vivid banded coloration, alternating black, red, and cream. The snake is depicted on a dry, open terrain, coiled in a way that highlights its characteristic warning pattern. Coral snakes are highly venomous, yet elusive and rarely aggressive unless provoked. Figure 2 presents the Egyptian Cobra, *Naja haje*, in an iconic raised posture with its hood expanded, emphasizing its defensive display. This species is one of the most recognizable snakes in the world, native to North Africa and parts of the Middle East. The cobra is shown against a background featuring pyramids and desert vegetation, symbolizing its connection to ancient Egyptian mythology. Its scales are carefully rendered in greenish-yellow hues, and the engraving captures the commanding presence of this species.

The plate was drawn by the renowned illustrator Oudart and engraved by Forget. The coloring was applied by hand, a common technique of the time that gives each print a unique appearance. This work was part of a larger encyclopedic effort to document global biodiversity and remains an important piece for collectors of zoological art. Ideal for collectors of antique natural history prints, enthusiasts of herpetology, or as a bold visual feature in an interior space.

Condition Summary: Minor foxing in the margins, image area clean with rich hand coloring. Strong plate impression, no tears or repairs. A well-preserved and visually striking 19th-century print. See less