Mammals Print: Bears, Fox, Otter & Skunk – Antique Hand-Coloured 1867
This beautiful antique print presents a detailed study of various mammals including bears, foxes, otters, and other carnivores. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Created as an educational tool for schools and families, this hand-coloured engraving depicts a variety of species in naturalistic poses within landscape settings.
The labelled figures include:
1. Brown bear (Ursus arctos) 2. Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) 3. European badger (Meles meles) 4. Civet (Civettictis civetta) 5. Kinkajou (Potos flavus) 6. Marten or sable (Martes species) 7. Polar bear (Ursus maritimus) 8. Lemur (Lemur species) 9. Otter (Lutra lutra) 10. Genet (Genetta genetta) 11. Civet cat (Viverra species) 12. Weasel (Mustela species) 13. Coati (Nasua nasua) 14. Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) 15. Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
The print was produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring. This technique allowed precise engraving lines and delicate colour washes, giving each animal lifelike textures and vivid details. Such plates served both as educational aids and as decorative prints for classrooms and libraries, reflecting the 19th-century fascination with zoological classification and natural history.
Condition summary: Good condition considering its age, with slight toning and occasional foxing spots mainly in the margins. Paper remains strong without tears or repairs, and the hand colouring is fresh and vibrant.
Framing tips: This charming natural history print will look beautiful in a dark wood, walnut, or black frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance the subtle colouring. For a traditional interior, a gold frame can add a warm antique touch. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vibrancy of the colours and prevent further toning. This print will enhance any collection of zoological art or natural history decor, adding timeless educational charm and refined beauty to your wall.
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.