Aquatic Ambush: Hand-Colored Engraving of The Tentacled Snake, 1845

€ 190

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1845
Sheet size: 26.5 × 17 cm (10.4 × 6.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-13261-132

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Good. Edge on the right side roughly cut. Aged paper with typically warm, yellowish-brown hue. Light offset. Please review the images for further condition details.

About this sheet

The image depicts a snake, specifically labeled as "Erpeton tentaculatus," which is commonly known as the tentacled snake. It is a species found in Southeast Asia and is remarkable for the pair of tentacles on its snout, which are unique among snakes and are believed to aid in sensory perception.

The snake is illustrated in a coiled position, which showcases the pattern and texture of its scales. The detailing of the scales is meticulous, suggesting the illustrator took great care to capture the reptile's appearance accurately.

As with the other engravings from Pierre Auguste Joseph Drapiez's 'Dictionnaire Classique des Sciences Naturelles', this hand-colored print would have been used for scientific study and education. The coloration is subtle, emphasizing the natural tones of the snake's skin.