Marine Life · 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 slight overall toning and minor foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong without tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Marine Mammals Print: Whales, Seals, Narwhal & Dolphin – Antique 1867
This beautiful antique print depicts a variety of marine mammals including whales, seals, dolphins, and a narwhal, rendered 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. Intended as an educational plate, it illustrates animals from Arctic, Atlantic, and freshwater environments, demonstrating 19th-century zoological knowledge of marine species.
The labelled figures include:
1. (not shown)
2. (not shown)
3. Sea lion (Otariinae species)
4. Manatee (Trichechus species)
5. Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus)
6. Dolphin (Delphinidae species)
7. Narwhal (Monodon monoceros)
8. Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)
9. Bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus)
10. Seal (Phocidae species)
The engraving technique used is copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, allowing fine anatomical lines and naturalistic shading. Each marine mammal is shown in its typical environment: whales surfacing and spraying, dolphins swimming in pods, and seals resting on rocky shores. This print served as an important teaching aid, providing students and readers with scientific accuracy combined with visual interest long before photographic marine studies became possible.
Condition summary:
Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong without tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Framing tips:
Frame this marine natural history print in a dark wood, black, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance the subtle ocean tones and fine engraving details. For a traditional interior, a gold frame adds warmth and classical appeal. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve its colours and prevent further toning. This antique print will enrich any collection of zoological art, marine-themed interior, or educational display with its scientific value and timeless decorative beauty.
