Chameleons in Tropical Foliage – Antique Reptile Natural History Print, 1895
€ 249
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1895
Mapmaker / artist
P. J. Smit, European natural history illustrator, c. 1880–1900
Technique
Color lithograph
Sheet size
25.5 × 17 cm (10.0 × 6.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13341-54
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 antique condition with age-related toning, scattered foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with age. Original margins preserved. Please examine the photographs carefully for a complete assessment of condition.
About this sheet
Chameleons in Tropical Foliage – Antique Reptile Natural History Print by P.J. Smit, 1895
This attractive antique natural history print depicts several chameleons moving through a network of leafy tropical branches. Beautifully illustrated by P. J. Smit, the composition captures the remarkable anatomy and behavior of these fascinating reptiles, presenting them within their natural environment rather than as isolated scientific specimens.
At the center of the image, a large chameleon extends its extraordinarily long tongue toward an unsuspecting insect, illustrating one of nature's most remarkable hunting adaptations. Other chameleons perch among the branches, their curled tails and distinctive body forms carefully rendered with scientific precision. The artist skillfully portrays the reptiles' independently moving eyes, grasping feet, and prehensile tails, all features that have made chameleons among the most recognizable reptiles in the world.
Produced during the golden age of natural history publishing, this print reflects the Victorian fascination with exotic wildlife and scientific discovery. Advances in color lithography enabled publishers to create illustrations that were both educational and highly decorative. The soft greens, warm earth tones, and delicate foliage create a harmonious composition that remains visually appealing more than a century later.
Unlike many zoological illustrations of the period, this scene conveys movement and behavior. The hunting chameleon creates a dynamic focal point while the surrounding foliage establishes a convincing tropical setting. Such narrative natural history images are particularly sought after by collectors because they combine artistic quality with scientific interest.
Today, antique reptile prints are increasingly appreciated by collectors of natural history, herpetology, tropical wildlife, and Victorian scientific illustration. This charming chameleon scene works equally well as a collector's item and as decorative wall art for contemporary interiors.
This is an original antique color lithograph, not a reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only.
Framing tips: Particularly attractive in a dark walnut, ebonized, or bamboo-style frame with a warm ivory museum mat. The subtle greens and tropical subject matter pair beautifully with botanical interiors, conservatories, studies, and natural history collections.
