Jacques de Seve, Anatomical Studies, Etching, 1771

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Plate from buffon's histoire naturelle, générale et particulière tome iii, plate v, page 202 paris: imprimerie royale, 1771 copperplate engraving … Read more Plate from buffon's histoire naturelle, générale et particulière tome iii, plate v, page 202 paris: imprimerie royale, 1771 copperplate engraving on laid paper plate mark visible; approx. 24.5 × 19.5 cm this finely executed copperplate engraving from the 1771 edition of buffon’s histoire naturelle illustrates methods of anatomical preservation and specimen containment. Comprising seven numbered figures, the plate presents a series of glass vessels and jars designed for the conservation of animal specimens in spirits. Figures 1–3 depict cylindrical glass containers housing preserved specimens, including a small quadruped and dissected anatomical preparations, carefully suspended within the fluid medium. Figures 4 and 5 show variations of fitted lids and interior supports, demonstrating sealing mechanisms and structural components. Figure 6 illustrates a narrow-necked apothecary-style bottle with inset stopper, while figure 7 presents a rectangular display case containing a preserved dog, emphasizing larger-scale preservation techniques. The upper margin is inscribed “tom. 3.” at left and “pl. V. Page 202.” at right, situating the engraving within volume iii of buffon’s monumental natural history. The lower margin credits “de seve del.” (jacques de sève, draftsman) and would originally have included the engraver’s signature, characteristic of the collaborative production methods of the imprimerie royale. Executed with precise burin work and subtle cross-hatching, the engraving reflects the enlightenment’s commitment not only to classification of the natural world but also to the material techniques required for its study. Such plates served to document the practical apparatus of eighteenth-century natural history, including specimen preservation, display, and transport—integral components of scientific inquiry and cabinet culture. This plate exemplifies the high production standards of french royal printing in the later eighteenth century and forms part of buffon’s ambitious encyclopedic project to describe and systematize the natural world. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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