About this sheet
Original Antique Anatomical Print of a European Crayfish by Bertuch, c. 1800
Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting the common European crayfish and its anatomy, published in Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s celebrated “Bilderbuch für Kinder” around the beginning of the 19th century.
The plate is titled “Insecten XXXVI / Insecta XXXVI / Insectes XXXVI” and is devoted to “Der gemeine Flusskrebs” — the Common Crayfish. Bertuch’s original accompanying text describes the crayfish, its appearance, reproduction and moulting, while the plate provides both an external view and detailed anatomical studies.
Fig. 1 shows the complete crayfish, rendered in the dark green-brown coloring Bertuch described as its usual appearance. The prominent claws, segmented abdomen, antennae and walking legs are carefully illustrated.
Figs. 2 and 3 provide separate studies of the claws, demonstrating differences in their form and structure. Additional smaller figures examine individual anatomical details.
Particularly fascinating is Fig. 5, a dissected crayfish showing its internal anatomy. Various organs and structures are individually identified with letters, turning the plate into an unusually detailed example of early comparative zoological illustration.
Bertuch’s text also discusses differences between male and female crayfish, noting the broader claws and narrower abdomen of the male, as well as the animal’s moulting and reproductive cycle. ([BBF Pictura Dev][1])
Although historically included by Bertuch under the heading “Insecten,” the crayfish is of course a crustacean according to modern zoological classification. This historical terminology makes the engraving an interesting document in the development of zoological science.
The engraving is delicately enhanced with original hand coloring in shades of dark green, brown, red, pink and ochre. The combination of a complete specimen, enlarged claws and internal anatomical study gives the plate considerable scientific as well as decorative appeal.
The plate bears the engraved signature “J. H. Schmuzer” at lower right and the reference “X.B.3.”
Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) was a German publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “Bilderbuch für Kinder” was one of the great illustrated educational encyclopedias of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, introducing young readers to zoology, botany, geography, science, technology, antiquity and many other subjects.
Creator:
Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822)
Source:
Bilderbuch für Kinder
Plate:
Insecten XXXVI / Insecta XXXVI / Insectes XXXVI
Historical Title:
Der gemeine Flusskrebs
Subject:
Common European Crayfish and its Anatomy
Place of Publication:
Weimar, Germany
Date of Manufacture:
Circa 1800
Period:
Late 18th / Early 19th Century
Style:
Neoclassical – In the Period of
Medium:
Original hand-colored copper engraving on paper
Condition:
Good. Wear consistent with age and use. General age-related toning with scattered foxing, spotting and minor marks. Some marginal wear and small edge imperfections. Original hand coloring remains attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition.
Please note:
This is an original antique engraving, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
Other companion marine-life, zoological and natural-history plates from Bertuch’s “Bilderbuch für Kinder” are also available separately.
