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 toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring remains vivid and clear.
Rodents & Small Mammals Print: Beaver, Squirrel, Porcupine – Antique 1867
This charming antique print depicts a wide variety of rodents and small 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, and published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. The print was designed as an educational tool, illustrating the diversity of rodent species and small mammals to teach children and adults about natural history in the 19th century.
The labelled figures include:
1. Mole (Talpa europaea)
2. Dormouse (Gliridae species)
3. Flying squirrel (Pteromyini species)
4. Common squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)
5. Marmot (Marmota marmota)
6. Field mice (Apodemus species)
7. Jerboa (Dipodidae species)
8. Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)
9. Vole (Microtus species)
10. Hamster (Cricetinae species)
11. Kangaroo rat (Dipodomys species)
12. Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
13. Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)
14. Shrew (Sorex species)
15. Water rat (Arvicola amphibius)
16. Mouse (Mus musculus)
17. Harvest mouse (Micromys minutus)
18. Beaver (Castor fiber)
19. Squirrel (Sciurus species)
20. Hare (Lepus europaeus)
21. Porcupine (Hystrix cristata)
22. Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
23. Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
24. Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)
25. Agouti (Dasyprocta species)
The engraving technique is copper engraving with delicate hand colouring, giving each animal lifelike textures and fine details. The poses show the animals in natural behaviours within stylised landscapes, combining zoological accuracy with artistic appeal. These plates were essential learning tools in schools and home libraries, making science accessible and visually engaging.
Condition summary:
Good condition for its age, with light toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring remains vivid and clear.
Framing tips:
Frame this print in a dark wood, walnut, or black frame with an off-white or cream mount to highlight its subtle colouring and fine engraving. A gold frame can also enhance its antique character for traditional interiors. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colours and prevent further toning. This print will enrich any zoological or natural history collection, adding educational charm and visual interest to your wall.
