DESCRIPTION: Hand-colored natural history print on laid paper illustrating two early representations of sperm whales, numbered 194 and 195 on Plate LXXVI. Both animals are shown in profile on rocky ledges beside the sea. The upper figure has an enormous rounded head, a narrow toothed lower jaw and a small flipper; the lower figure features a more tapered head, an open mouth and a curved jet from its blowhole.
The exaggerated anatomy and unusual facial details reflect the limited understanding of whales represented in early natural history illustration. Gray and blue coloring contrasts with the reddish mouths and ochre rocks. A manuscript identification beneath the image reads "Physeter macrocephalus," the scientific name of the sperm whale.
PUBLICATION DATE: 1810
GEOGRAPHIC AREA: N/A
BODY OF WATER: N/A
CONDITION: Very good.
Slight marginal browning.
COLORING: Hand color.
ENGRAVER:
SIZE: 6
" x
3 "
ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 14
PRICE: $120
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