Brodtmann, Alpine Marmot, Hamster, Lemming & Rock Hyrax, 1816, Lithograph

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Alpine Marmot, Hamster, Lemming & Rock Hyrax, Brodtmann Lithograph, 1816 This original hand-colored lithograph presents a fascinating group of small … Read more Alpine Marmot, Hamster, Lemming & Rock Hyrax, Brodtmann Lithograph, 1816 This original hand-colored lithograph presents a fascinating group of small mammals from Europe and Africa, illustrated with the scientific precision and artistic refinement characteristic of early nineteenth-century natural history publications. The sheet features the Alpine Marmot (*Marmota alpina*), Hamster (*Cricetus*), Lemming (*Mus lemmus*), and Rock Hyrax (*Hyrax capensis*), each carefully depicted to emphasize their distinctive anatomy and appearance. The print was created by Swiss artist and natural history illustrator Karl Joseph Brodtmann (1787–1862) and published in Lindau in 1816 as part of the celebrated *Naturhistorische Bilder-Gallerie aus dem Thierreiche*. Produced during the pioneering years of lithographic printing, the series introduced audiences to the diversity of the animal kingdom through accurate and beautifully hand-colored illustrations. The upper portion of the composition is devoted to the Alpine Marmot (*Marmota alpina*), a robust mountain-dwelling rodent native to the high Alps and other European mountain ranges. Admired for its social behavior and distinctive warning whistles, the marmot became one of the most recognizable mammals of alpine landscapes. The center section depicts two smaller rodents: the Hamster and the Lemming. During the nineteenth century, both species fascinated naturalists for their remarkable adaptations and population cycles. The detailed rendering allows viewers to appreciate the subtle differences in body shape, fur texture, and proportions between these related animals. Dominating the lower portion of the sheet is the Rock Hyrax (*Hyrax capensis*), a curious African mammal that superficially resembles a large rodent but is in fact more closely related to elephants and manatees. The inclusion of this unusual species reflects the expanding scientific knowledge and global curiosity of the early nineteenth century. Brodtmann's restrained composition focuses attention entirely on the animals, while delicate hand coloring and meticulous lithographic work provide a remarkable level of detail. The warm earthy palette creates a harmonious and decorative image that appeals equally to collectors of zoology and antique natural history art. Today, original Brodtmann lithographs are sought after for their scientific importance, artistic quality, and historical significance. This sheet is especially attractive because it combines several unusual mammal species from different regions of the world on a single composition. Keywords: Alpine Marmot, Marmota Alpina, Marmot, Hamster, Lemming, Rock Hyrax, Hyrax Capensis, Rodents, Small Mammals, Alpine Wildlife, African Mammals, Natural History, Zoology, Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Hand-Colored Lithograph, Scientific Illustration, Antique Animal Print, Early Lithography, Wildlife Art, Lindau 1816, Cabinet of Curiosities. Condition report: Good condition considering age. Light age toning, occasional foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with a print more than 200 years old. Original hand coloring remains attractive and well preserved. Please review photographs carefully. Framing tips: This print displays beautifully in a dark walnut, ebonized, or black-gilt frame with an ivory museum mat and fine gold fillet. The neutral earth tones of the animals make it particularly suitable for country houses, studies, libraries, and modern interiors inspired by natural history collections. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, published in Lindau, 1816. See less