Mammals · 19th century
€ 290
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General age-related toning. Minor wear and soiling, blank verso. Please study image carefully.
This engraving is a detailed depiction of a snow leopard, also known as an ounce (Panthera uncia). It shows the animal in a profile view, allowing for a clear observation of its physical characteristics, such as the thick fur, powerful build, and the distinctive rosette pattern on its coat. The meticulous detailing suggests the leopard's dense, spotted fur and musculature, conveying a sense of the animal's grace and strength.
The print is titled "The Once," an archaic term for the snow leopard. It notes the scientific name "F. O. Uncia" below the title, which refers to the older classification of the snow leopard. The illustration captures the elusive nature of the animal in a static yet lifelike pose, emphasizing its solitary and majestic presence.
This particular print was engraved by Thomas Landseer, who was renowned for his skill in the art of engraving. The original drawing was made by Charles Hamilton Smith, an artist known for his work in natural history illustration, from a specimen skin in the Tower of London. Such a source indicates that the animal was not observed in the wild but rather from a collected skin, which was common practice at the time for studying exotic animals not native to Europe.
Published by G. & W.B. Whittaker in London around the year 1824, this work is a fine example of early 19th-century natural history illustration. Hand coloring adds a layer of visual depth and aesthetic appeal to the print, making it not only a valuable scientific record but also a piece of art. It reflects the period's dedication to documenting and understanding the natural world in an era of exploration and discovery.
