Original Engraving – Crustaceans: Coconut Crab / Thief Whelk (by Orbigny)

Magnificent original steel engraving from the prestigious Dictionnaire Universel d'Histoire Naturelle (Universal Dictionary of Natural History) edited by naturalist Charles d'Orbigny. This work is considered one of the pinnacles of 19th-century scientific illustration.
The plate, entitled “Crustaceans. PL. 4,” offers a remarkably accurate representation of the coconut crab, the largest terrestrial arthropod in the world. The drawing highlights the complex details of its shell and powerful claws.
Drawn by Vaillant (naturalist painter) and engraved by Fournier. The mention “Folliau imp.” indicates the printer of the time.
Beautiful black and white proof, presented in a frame with a white passe-partout. The paper has some natural foxing from the period, a guarantee of its authenticity.
Collectors of naturalist plates, science history enthusiasts, decorators, or marine biology and crustacean enthusiasts.
Framed by us to ensure the protection of the engraving and enhance its presentation.
International shipping. Delivery by Colissimo with careful packaging and reinforced protection of the item.
DIMENSIONS: Frame 8.7x11.8in / Engraving 5.9x9.5in
DATE: 19th century, 1849 (Date of completion of the original edition)
ORIGIN: Paris, France. Dictionnaire Universel d’Histoire Naturelle (Universal Dictionary of Natural History), Charles d'Orbigny. Publishers: Renard, Martinet et Cie.