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-12980-28
Condition
Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
This detailed antique print depicts a wide range of shells and bivalves, including mussels, oysters, scallops, cockles, and shipworms, 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 to mollusc and marine invertebrate diversity.
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, the print shows fine anatomical lines and naturalistic colours, capturing each species’ shell structure, ridges, and growth features. These educational plates allowed detailed comparison before the widespread use of photographic field guides in marine biology.
Condition summary: Good condition for its age, with slight overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is vivid and well-preserved.
Framing tips: Frame this shells and bivalves print in a black, dark wood, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its delicate engraved lines and muted marine tones. For traditional interiors, a gold frame adds antique warmth and elegance. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colours and prevent further toning. This antique natural history print will enrich any marine art collection, educational interior, or natural history gallery wall with timeless scientific beauty and decorative charm.
