Cochineal Cactus and Kermes Oak: Hand-Colored Engraving from 1798

€ 180

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1798
Sheet size: 25.7 × 19.7 cm (10.1 × 7.8 in)
Reference: BG-13292-37

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Very good, with vibrant colors, sharp details, and intact edges. Slight age-toning and minimal foxing are present but typical for its age. A remarkable piece, ideal for collectors or as a unique decorative element.

About this sheet

This vibrant hand-colored copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" (1795) highlights the cochineal cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) with the cochineal beetle (Dactylopius coccus), alongside the Kermes oak (Quercus coccifera) and Kermes beetle (Kermes vermilio). Both species were historically significant for producing natural red dyes used in textiles and art.

The detailed depiction includes the life stages of these beetles and their host plants, blending scientific accuracy with artistic beauty. Part of Bertuch's celebrated 12-volume encyclopedia, this plate offers a fascinating insight into 18th-century studies of natural history and industry.