Antique Scientific Print of Telphusa Lacraudi Crab, Sumatra c.1880
This detailed antique lithograph depicts the freshwater crab species 'Telphusa lacraudi' from Sumatra. The plate is titled Midden-Sumatra IV.13 C. Crust. Pl. I. and was drawn by A.J.W. and printed by P.W\.M. Trap in the late 19th century as part of the Dutch colonial scientific exploration of Central Sumatra.
The illustration shows the crab in full dorsal view (1), with detailed anatomical studies of its claw (1a) and ventral carapace (1b). These precise illustrations were produced to document newly classified species and remain valuable references for crustacean taxonomy. Such plates combine scientific clarity with fine lithographic technique, reflecting the high standard of Dutch zoological publications during this period.
Today these prints are collected for their decorative and educational appeal, valued in natural history collections, crustacean biology references, and Southeast Asian biodiversity displays.
Condition report: The print is in very good condition with strong original impressions and clean paper. Minor age toning and a few faint spots in the margins, not affecting the image. The paper remains stable with no tears or repairs.
Framing tips: This lithograph will display beautifully in a slim black or dark wood frame with a gold inner edge to emphasise its detailed illustration. Pair with a cream or pale sand-coloured mat for an elegant, timeless presentation ideal for natural history galleries, studies, or scientific illustration walls.
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.