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 scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Snakes Print: Boa, Python, Viper, Coral Snake – Antique 1867
This dramatic antique print depicts various snake species, including boas, pythons, vipers, and coral snakes, 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. Designed as an educational tool, this plate introduced 19th-century students to the diversity and anatomy of snakes worldwide.
The labelled figures include:
1. Blind snake (Typhlopidae species)
2. Adder (Vipera berus)
3. Boa constrictor (Boa constrictor)
4. Indian python (Python molurus)
5. Anaconda (Eunectes murinus)
6. Rat snake (Pantherophis obsoletus)
7. King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)
8. Coral snake (Micrurus species)
9. Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix)
10. Bushmaster (Lachesis muta)
11. Milk snake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
12. Rock python (Python sebae)
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print combines precise anatomical lines with rich naturalistic colours. Each snake is depicted coiled, climbing trees, or poised to strike within lush stylised jungle settings, highlighting their distinctive patterns, scales, and defensive postures. Such prints were vital educational references in schools and libraries before photographic herpetology guides became widespread.
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 herpetological print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its dramatic engraving and rich earthy colours. For a traditional interior, a gold frame adds antique warmth and classical character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve its colours and prevent further toning. This antique natural history print will enrich any reptile collection, educational interior, or natural history gallery with timeless scientific beauty and decorative intrigue.
