Bertuch, Four Corals, 1790, Engraving

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Original antique print of four corals by bertuch, c. 1790 original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting four remarkable varieties of … Read more Original antique print of four corals by bertuch, c. 1790 original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting four remarkable varieties of coral and marine growth, published in friedrich justin bertuch’s celebrated “bilderbuch für kinder” around the end of the 18th century. The plate is titled “corallen i / corallia / coraux i” and bears the reference “i.b.21” at lower right. It belongs to bertuch’s early natural-history series illustrating the extraordinary diversity of marine organisms then collectively described as corals. Four dramatically different specimens are arranged across the sheet. Fig. 1 depicts a branching red coral with multiple upright stems. Its vivid original red coloring makes it the strongest color accent in the composition and recalls the precious red corals that had long been collected in the mediterranean and used for jewelry and decorative objects. Fig. 2 shows a tall, dark branching form with an elegant tree-like structure, representative of the flexible horn-like corals historically grouped among the gorgonians. Fig. 3 illustrates a large irregular, porous coral formation, rendered in pale ochre and gray tones. Its complex surface and numerous cavities emphasize the extraordinary structural variety encountered in coral colonies. Fig. 4 dominates the upper part of the plate and is perhaps the most visually striking specimen. Its broad, deeply folded and radiating surfaces create an almost flower-like or sculptural appearance, demonstrating why corals occupied such a fascinating position between the botanical and zoological worlds in early natural-history classification. During the 18th century, the classification and biological nature of corals remained an important subject of scientific investigation. Earlier naturalists had frequently compared them with plants or mineral formations, while increasingly detailed observation established their animal nature. The terminology and organization of early coral collections therefore provide a fascinating insight into the development of marine zoology. The engraving combines finely engraved scientific detail with restrained original hand coloring in red, ochre, gray and black. Its large sculptural forms and spacious composition give the plate considerable decorative appeal in both traditional natural-history collections and contemporary coastal interiors. Friedrich justin bertuch (1747–1822) was a german publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “bilderbuch für kinder” was one of the great illustrated educational encyclopedias of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, covering zoology, botany, geography, science, technology, antiquity and numerous other subjects. Creator: friedrich justin bertuch (1747–1822) source: bilderbuch für kinder plate: corallen i / corallia / coraux i reference: i.b.21 subject: four corals and marine organisms place of publication: weimar, germany date of manufacture: circa 1790 period: late 18th century style: neoclassical – in the period of medium: original hand-colored copper engraving on paper condition: good. Wear consistent with age and use. General age-related toning with scattered foxing, spotting and minor marks. Some discoloration and handling wear are visible, consistent with the age of the sheet. Original hand coloring remains attractive, particularly the strong red coloring of fig. 1. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition. Please note: this is an original antique engraving from the late 18th century, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only. Other companion marine-life and natural-history plates from bertuch’s “bilderbuch für kinder” are also available separately. Keywords: antique coral print, red coral, coral engraving, gorgonian coral, marine coral, coral reef print, marine biology, marine zoology, ocean natural history, antique marine print, coastal decor, cabinet of curiosities, natural history print, bertuch print, friedrich justin bertuch, hand colored engraving, 18th century natural history See less