Circa 1742 Antique Natural History Hand-Colored Engraving sea Shells

Description: This first edition, folio shell engraving is from Niccolo Gualtieri's "Index testarum conchyliorum quae adservantur in museo Nicolai Gualtieri". The work was published in Florence by C. Albizzini in 1742. The plates were engraved by Antonio Pazzi & Giuseppe Menabuoni.

Gualtieri was an Italian physician and naturalist. Many of the images in the work were from his personal and renowned collection of shells. Linnaeus used many of Gualtieri's speciments for his "Systema Naturae". Niccolo Gualtieri (1688-1744) was a a professor at the University of Pisa and physician to Cosimo III, Grand Duke of Tuscany. The Duke was a keen collector and had a magnificent cabinet of shells including 360 species sent to him by Rumphius, and many of the duplicates were given to Gualtieri.

The present work shows Gualtieri's collection and is one of the most curious and beautiful books on shells ever published. Many of the shells are depicted standing on their apices, and are depicted from two sides, showing the complete surface. Both engraving and typography are exceptional. Gualtieri's collection is extant and can be found in the Museo storia naturale in Pisa.

Size: app. 11.75" x 17.25"


Condition : In a wonderful condition but please do examine the print, as it's been said that beauty is an eye of beholder. Remember this print is over 100+ Years old and some imperfection can be expected due to it's age.

Rarity : Extremely Rare and becoming hard to find.


Shipping : I take huge pride in packing since it is a delicate and important part . This print will come in an acid free backing board as well as in an acid free sleeve.



Authenticity : All our prints are guaranteed to be an original. If you like us to include a copy of book cover will be happy to.