Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1867
Sheet size
28.5 × 22 cm (11.2 × 8.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-12980-16
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 condition for its age, with slight toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand coloring remains vibrant and clear.
This detailed antique print depicts various turtles and tortoises, including sea turtles, snapping turtles, and terrapins, rendered in fine hand-colored 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. Created for educational use, this plate introduced 19th-century students and readers to the diversity of chelonian species worldwide.
The labeled figures include:
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand coloring, the print combines precise anatomical lines with naturalistic color washes. Each turtle or tortoise is shown in a natural pose within aquatic or terrestrial habitats, illustrating the unique shell patterns, head shapes, and limb structures that define each species. Such plates served as essential teaching tools in schools and libraries before photographic field guides were widely available.
Condition summary: Good condition for its age, with slight toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand coloring remains vibrant and clear.
Framing tips: Frame this natural history print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its detailed engravings and subtle earthy tones. For a traditional interior, a gold frame adds antique warmth and elegance. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colors and prevent further toning. This antique zoological print will enrich any reptile collection, natural history display, or educational interior with timeless scientific beauty and decorative charm.
