Mammals · 19th century
€ 180
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition for its age, with light overall toning and minor scattered foxing, mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the colours remain fresh and vibrant.
Big Cats & Marsupials Print: Lion, Tiger, Kangaroo – Antique 1867
This striking antique print depicts a variety of big cats, marsupials, and other mammals in detailed hand-coloured engravings. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Designed for educational use, it combines zoological accuracy with artistic illustration to teach students about the diversity of animal life worldwide.
The labelled figures include:
1. Striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena)
2. Brown hyena (Parahyaena brunnea)
3. Civet cat (Viverra species)
4. Wild cat (Felis silvestris)
5. Tiger (Panthera tigris)
6. Puma or cougar (Puma concolor)
7. Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
8. Bandicoot (Perameles species)
9. Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii)
10. Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
11. Shrew (Sorex species)
12. Flying squirrel (Pteromyini species)
13. Kangaroo with joey (Macropus species)
14. Wallaby (Macropus species)
15. Wombat (Vombatus ursinus)
At the centre stands the powerful African lion (Panthera leo), and to its right is the boldly coloured tiger, both rendered with careful anatomical proportion and texture. The engraving technique used is copper engraving with delicate hand colouring, typical of mid-19th century scientific publications, combining precise engraved lines with subtle watercolour washes to bring each animal to life.
These prints served as essential teaching aids in schools and homes, merging natural science education with decorative art. Today they are valued for their academic beauty and as historical records of zoological knowledge and illustration style.
Condition summary:
Good condition for its age, with light overall toning and minor scattered foxing, mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the colours remain fresh and vibrant.
Framing tips:
Frame this print in a dark wood, walnut, or black frame with an off-white or cream mount to emphasise the fine colouring and engraved details. For a more classic interior, a gold frame adds warmth and antique character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colour and prevent further toning. This zoological print will enrich any natural history collection or interior with its combination of scientific accuracy, rich illustration, and decorative appeal.
