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Gualtieri antique print of molluscs engraved c1742,

Gualtieri antique print of molluscs engraved c1742,

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by Gualtieri, Niccolo

Collection of Molluscs antique print c1742. Hand-coloured Shells engraving, Plate 34 for Niccolo Gualtieri's Conchology.

Fine original copperplate engraving published in Florence (Italy) circa 1742, for Index Testarum Conchyliorum quae adservantur in Museo Niccolai Gualtieri (List of Shells in the Museum of Nicolai Gualtieri) by Niccolo Gualtieri (1688-1744).

18th century natural history illustrators, Giuseppe Menabuoni (1708-1745) and Antonio Pazzi (1706-1768) created 110 splendid copperplate engravings from specimens in Gualtieri's shell collection. Groups illustrating the different families of marine life, are arranged in rows, with some shells standing on end and casting small shadows. The illustration combines scientific observation and aesthetic appreciation of the natural colours, textures, and shapes of marine life.

Niccolo Gualtieri was an Italian medical doctor and professor at the University of Pisa. His passion was conchology, and his collection of molluscs, and the system he devised for classification, were commended by eminent zoologists. In 1716 Gualtieri co-founded the first European botanical society, the Botanical Society of Florence.

Page size is 320 x 455mm (12.1/2 x 17.7/8 inches). Approximate measurements of plate mark: 240 x 370mm (9.1/2 x 14.1/2 inches).

(This engraving is currently framed in wide dark veneered swept-back frame. It will be unframed to accommodate purchase of this print at print-only price. As framed, price is $1,250. Picture is available for viewing.)

 

Stock Number: apGs33fPrice: $650.00