Le Physale Cylindrique (Sperm Whale), Hand-Colored Engraving, 1840

€ 260

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

Date: 1840
Sheet size: 16.5 × 25.6 cm (6.5 × 10.1 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-14320-12

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

Light foxing, gentle age toning, and small binding traces along the upper edge. Overall very good with well-preserved contemporary coloring.

About this sheet

Le Physale Cylindrique (Sperm Whale), Hand-Colored Engraving, 1840

A remarkable nineteenth-century depiction of a stranded whale dominating a rocky shoreline, surrounded by curious onlookers and horse riders. The immense scale of the animal transforms the scene into a powerful meditation on nature's grandeur and mystery.

Designed by Édouard Traviès and engraved by Beyer, this work was published by Furne in Paris circa 1840 as part of an important natural history series. The restrained hand-coloring and detailed engraving showcase the refined craftsmanship of French printmaking during the period.

Presented and sold unframed. Framed images are for inspiration only and not always to scale.