Antique Prints, Maps, & Books of Natural History, Botanicals, & More
Lot 9228:
Description
This engraving is from Georges Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon’s
Histoire naturelle, generale et particuliere. The work was published in Paris by Hotel de Thou between 1749 and 1789. The map was after Jacques-Nicolas Bellin.
Buffon’s work became one of the most informative sources as far as the visual appearance of animals, and was highly understandable for a wide audience. Buffon described his work and love for natural history by stating that, "Natural history embraces all the objects the universe presents to us. This prodigious multitude of quadrupeds, birds, fish, insects, plants, minerals, etc., offers to the curiosity of the human mind a vast spectacle, of which the whole is so great that the details are inexhaustible."
Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (1703-1772) was one of the most noted mapmakers of the 1700s. He served as the hydrographer to the French Navy at the age of 18 and was eventually named the Official Hydrogapher of the French King. He produced numerous maps and atlases throughout his career, and helped establish France as a leading source of precise cartography.
Paper Size: ~ 20 1/8" by 10" (Fold Out)
Paper Type or Special Features: Engraving
Condition report:
The work is in very good to excellent condition overall. There may be some faint offset from the fold out nature of the plate. There may be a few minor imperfections to be expected with age. Please review the image carefully for condition and contact us with any questions.
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