Reptiles and Fish and Insects, 1800, Paper

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Antique engravings of reptiles, fish, and insects, tab. V & vi, circa 1800 this fine double natural history engraving, titled … Read more Antique engravings of reptiles, fish, and insects, tab. V & vi, circa 1800 this fine double natural history engraving, titled “tab. V” and “tab. Vi,” presents an engaging selection of reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and marine life. Created around 1800, likely in germany, the print exemplifies the clarity and precision of late 18th- to early 19th-century zoological illustration. Each figure is finely numbered, with a detailed german legend below identifying the various species depicted. The left plate (tab. V) features an assortment of reptiles and aquatic creatures, including a turtle, crocodile, viper, eel, and several species of fish and amphibians, rendered with meticulous attention to anatomical detail. The right plate (tab. Vi) depicts a lively collection of insects and small invertebrates—among them butterflies, beetles, moths, bees, scorpions, corals, shells, and an octopus. The arrangement reflects the enlightenment-era fascination with the diversity of the natural world and the ambition to classify every form of life through careful observation and comparative study. Such engravings were often published in encyclopedic works or compendia devoted to natural science education. They were designed not only as scientific references but also as decorative and educational pieces, intended to spark curiosity about zoology among scholars and the general public alike. The fine line engraving, balanced composition, and clarity of detail suggest the work of a skilled engraver working under the guidance of a naturalist such as bertuch, schröter, or wilhelm, whose publications aimed to visualize nature’s order in elegant yet accessible form. Condition report: good condition with slight age toning and minor handling marks consistent with age. The impression is clean and well-defined, with full margins and a visible plate mark around both images. No tears or significant defects. Framing tips: a double window mount separating the two plates would highlight their symmetry and scientific harmony. Use a light cream or soft ivory mat with a thin black or graphite inner line, and frame in a simple dark wood or black molding to complement the crisp engraving lines. This pairing would make a refined decorative and educational display suitable for an office, study, or natural history collection. Technique: engraving on laid paper maker: anonymous german engraver, circa 1800 See less