One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1867
Sheet size
28.5 × 22 cm (11.2 × 8.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-12980-16
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 colouring remains vibrant and clear.
This detailed antique print depicts various turtles and tortoises, including sea turtles, snapping turtles, and terrapins, rendered in fine 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. Created for educational use, this plate introduced 19th-century students and readers to the diversity of chelonian species worldwide.
The labelled figures include:
1. Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) 2. Hawksbill turtle juvenile (Eretmochelys imbricata) 3. Hawksbill turtle adult (Eretmochelys imbricata) 4. Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) 5. Common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) 6. Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) 7. Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) 8. Mata mata turtle (Chelus fimbriata) 9. European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) 10. Asian leaf turtle (Cyclemys dentata)
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print combines precise anatomical lines with naturalistic colour 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 colouring 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 colours 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.
