Antique Seashell Prints ? Set of Ten 18th Century Marine Engravings, c.1770

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Seller: Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands, Langweer, FRL, NetherlandsBartele Gallery - The Netherlands

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AbeBooks seller since January 8, 2018

Association member: NVVAILAB

Condition: Used

£ 423.20

£ 14.25 shipping 
Ships from Netherlands to U.S.A.

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Item description from seller

Set of Ten Antique Engravings of Seashells and Marine Invertebrates from Diderot's Encyclopédie, ca. 1770 An outstanding group of ten copperplate engravings from Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert's monumental Encyclopédie ou Dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers, Paris, circa 1770. These plates form part of the Histoire naturelle section devoted to mollusks and marine invertebrates, reflecting the Enlightenment fascination with seashells and the diversity of marine life. The engravings display a remarkable variety of species, including spiral shells, nautilus forms, conical shells, scallops, mussels, and barnacles. Each plate isolates different groups and presents them in a clear scientific style, balancing accuracy with visual elegance. The delicate linework and shading emphasize the texture, patterns, and geometric perfection of these natural forms, which were widely admired in the 18th century both as objects of study and as prized collectibles for natural history cabinets. The selection includes: ? Spiral and turret shells with fine whorled ornamentation ? Nautilus shells with their chambered interiors ? Bivalves such as scallops and mussels, shown in profile and interior views ? Exotic conical and elongated species, presented as comparative studies ? Barnacles and corals, emphasizing their connection to marine natural history These engravings are important historical records of the classification of mollusks at a time when taxonomy was still in development. They reflect the encyclopedists' ambition to compile and share knowledge of the natural world, combining scientific observation with refined copperplate artistry. Today, they are valued both for their contribution to the history of science and for their strong decorative appeal. Condition report: All plates in good condition with strong platemarks. Some age-related toning, light foxing, and faint handling marks consistent with 18th-century folio engravings. Images remain sharp and well-defined. Offered as a set of ten separate folio sheets, unframed. Framing tips: These ten engravings can be arranged as a dramatic wall ensemble or displayed in smaller groups. Matching frames with ivory or cream mounts create a unified presentation, while dark wood or black frames lend a scholarly atmosphere. For a refined effect, consider double matting with a soft sea-green or blue inner line to highlight the maritime theme. Technique: Copperplate engraving Maker: Denis Diderot & Jean le Rond d'Alembert, Paris, ca. 1770.…

Seller Inventory # BG-13494-14, etc

Bibliographic details

Title
Antique Seashell Prints ? Set of Ten 18th Century Marine Engravings, c.1770

Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands

Langweer, FRL, Netherlands

5-star seller

AbeBooks seller since January 8, 2018

Association member:

Shipping rates from Netherlands to U.S.A.

Item3 to 9 business days2 to 4 business days
First item£ 14.25£ 29.35
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Store description

Bartele Gallery offers a wide range of antique maps, prints and rare books. Our extensive collection of antique maps covers every part of the world. Whilst cartography holds a special place in our collection, we also offer thousands of antique prints covering fields of interest as diverse as architecture, natural history, religion, ethnology and many more. Our Abebooks store includes a selection of maps, prints and books for SALE prices. Please visit our other online sales channels to explore our complete collection of original antique maps and print. Save on shipping and order multiple items!…

Specialty

Antique Maps, Prints and Books. (large collection of book of the Dutch Indies not yet online)

Association member

  • The Nederlandsche Vereeniging van Antiquaren
  • International League of Antiquarian Booksellers
Members of these associations are committed to maintaining the highest standards. They vouch for the authenticity of all items offered for sale. They provide expert and detailed descriptions, disclose all significant defects and/or restorations, provide clear and accurate pricing, and operate with fairness and honesty during the purchase experience.

Seller's business information

Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands

Netherlands