Reptiles & Amphibians · 18th century
€ 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition. Age-related toning, minor edge wear, and no text on verso. Colors remain vibrant. Please review images carefully.
Antique Handcolored Engraving of Snakes, Amphibien VII, c.1800
This original handcolored copperplate engraving features two striking snake species in dynamic poses. It is sourced from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's *Bilderbuch für Kinder* (Picture Book for Children), a celebrated 12-volume encyclopedia published between 1790 and 1830. This monumental work combined artistic mastery with scientific precision, making it a valuable educational resource in its time.
The engraving showcases intricate scale details and lifelike depictions of the snakes, emphasizing their textures and patterns, including yellow accents on the upper snake. The vibrant hand coloring and skilled craftsmanship of this engraving make it a remarkable piece for collectors of natural history art and antique zoological illustrations.
The engraving likely depicts two distinct snake species, based on the detailed illustration:
1. Upper Snake:
This appears to be a type of European Viper (Vipera berus) or a related species, commonly known as the common adder. Its coiled posture, triangular head, and the detailed zigzag yellow markings on its back are characteristic of vipers. The open mouth and visible fangs also align with venomous viper species.
2. Lower Snake:
The second snake, with its dark, smooth scales and elongated body, resembles a European Grass Snake (Natrix natrix) or a similar non-venomous species. The absence of prominent markings and the overall dark coloration may represent a melanistic (dark-pigmented) form, which is occasionally found in grass snakes.
Condition Report:
Good condition. General age toning, minor edge wear, no text on verso. Vivid colors remain intact. Please study the images carefully.
