Exceptionally rare elephant folio sized lithograph by Goldfuss, largest colonial print of a Koala. In the early depictions of Australian exotic zoology, it was the unique mammals such as the kangaroo and platypus that captured the artists and collectors imagination, and as a consequence were more often illustrated. It is not surprising then, that the Koala was one of the least depicted of the local fauna and it wasn't until 1798, some nine years after settlement, that it was first recorded and then formally described in 1811. 1788 First sighting (26th January). John Price, Bargo, NSW 'There is another animal which the natives call a 'cullawine', which much resembles the sloths in America. 1802 First specimen (parts only) Barrallier, location unknown NSW 'The Aboriginals brought portions of a monkey (in the native language Colo), but they had cut it into pieces. I sent these two feet to the Government preserved in a bottle of brandy. 1803 First published account (21st August) Sydney Gazette, Port Jackson, NSW An Animal whose species was never before found in the Colony, is in His excellency's possession. 1808 First scientific report (23rd June ) Everard Home, S.W. Of Port Jackson It is commonly about two feet long and one high, in the girth about one foot and half it is covered with the soft fur, lead coloured on the back, and white on the belly. Common names: Koala, Koala Bear, Native Bear. Modern binomial name Phascolarctos cinereus First described Goldfuss 1817 Reference The Mammals of Australia, Strahan, 2nd edition. Page: 195-198, ill. 195-197 From Naturalist Atlas by Georg August Goldfuss. The work was released in parts comprising 20 per year, from 1824-1842 in Dusseldorf. and was never released as an officially bound copy. Exceptionally Rare Image Size: 440mm x 320mm (17.3" x 12.6"). Condition: Repaired tear left hand side just showing from mount edge. Technique: Lithograph with original handcolouring. Seller Inventory # GOLD ANI AA 364

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Bibliographic Details

Title: Lipurus Cinereus nobis

Publication Date: 1842

Binding: No Binding

Condition: Very Good

Store Description

Antique Print and Map Room is the largest specialist dealer of rare antique maps and prints in Australia. Established in 1979, our gallery is located in Ultimo, near Sydney's city centre (5 minute walk from the Powerhouse Museum). Our extensive stock is available for purchase online or in our gallery. Our collection includes items from almost every geographical area and spans historical periods from the 15th to the 20th centuries. We have a particular focus on maps and prints charting the early discoveries and cultural exchanges of the East Indies, Pacific and Australia. This includes one of the largest and compelling collections of natural history in Australia. We stock only the highest quality material and guarantee the items are described as in the condition reports on our website. Since our founding, we have become a trusted source of prized historical material for collectors and prestigious national and international institutions and several important private collections. We are members of the following professional associations: AAADA, ANZAAB, ILAB, CINOA.

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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.

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Antique Print & Map Room
Shop 189, 392 Jones Street, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia

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