Molluscs & Marine Invertebrates Print: Octopus, Slug, Snails, Conch – 1867

About this sheet

Molluscs & Marine Invertebrates Print: Octopus, Slug, Snails, Conch – Antique 1867

This detailed antique print depicts a wide range of molluscs and marine invertebrates, including octopus, squid, slugs, snails, conch, and sea cucumbers, rendered in fine 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. Created as an educational tool, this plate introduced 19th-century students to the diversity and anatomy of molluscan life.

The labelled figures include:

1. Chiton (Polyplacophora species)
2. Bristle worm (Polychaeta species)
3. Sea cucumber (Holothuroidea species)
4. Feather duster worm (Sabellidae species)
5. Sea hare (Aplysia species)
6. Green flatworm (Platyhelminthes species)
7. Sea cucumber (Holothuroidea species)
7a. Sea cucumber cross section
8. Octopus (Octopoda species)
8a. Octopus tentacle
9. Squid (Teuthida species)
10. Tunicate larva (Ascidiacea species)
10a. Tunicate adult
11. Slug (Gastropoda species)
12. Garden snail (Helix aspersa)
13. Periwinkle (Littorina littorea)
14. Mud snail (Hydrobiidae species)
15. Wentletrap (Epitoniidae species)
16. Cone shell (Conidae species)
17. Cowry (Cypraeidae species)
18. Nudibranch (Nudibranchia species)
19. Conch (Strombidae species)
19a. Conch interior view
20. Fireworm (Amphinomidae species)
21. Whelk (Buccinidae species)
22. Top shell (Trochidae species)
22a. Top shell top view
22b. Top shell bottom view
23. Mite (Acarina species)
24. Harvestman (Opiliones species)
25. Brachiopod (Brachiopoda species)

Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print shows precise anatomical lines and naturalistic colouring that captures each species’ shell structure, texture, and form. Each is systematically arranged for comparative study, reflecting 19th-century educational standards in natural history before photographic guides were available.

Condition summary:
Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.

Framing tips:
Frame this mollusc print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its fine engraved details and subtle pastel tones. For traditional interiors, a gold frame adds antique warmth and classical elegance. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colours and prevent further toning. This antique natural history print will enrich any marine biology, shell art, or educational collection with timeless scientific beauty and decorative charm.