Vermes Molluscs, Indian Oncidiuim, Sea-Hare, Sea-Lemon, Sea-Mouse, c1814

by Rees, Abraham

Antique print of Vermes. Order Mollusca. Genus Oncidium, G. Laplisla, G. Doris, G. Aphrodita - O. Typhae, L. Depilans, D. Aro. D. Radiata, D. Papillosa, A. Aculeata, A squamata.

Original copperplate engraving by Milton for The New Cyclopaedia compiled by Abraham Rees and published between 1810 and 1818 by Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme & Brown of Paternoster Row in London. 

Having served a long apprenticeship as a reviser of Chambers’ Encyclopaedia, between 1802 and 1820 Rees produced the greatest encyclopaedia of the early 18th century, The Cyclopaedia or, Universal Dictionary of Arts, Sciences and Literature. A completely original, finely illustrated work, using the finest artists and experts in each field, there were over 240 engraved portraits of well-known and unusual subjects in each of its seven volumes.

This wonderful engraving has fine later hand-colour, which certainly adds to its appeal. The page measures 265 x 205mm (10.5 x 8 inches).