12393 Robert Benard (1734–1777) – Natural History: Ornithological Studies of Hawks and Buzzards – Engraving (c. 1770–1780)
"Histoire Naturelle, Ornithologie". This scientific engraving depicts four species of birds of prey, capturing the distinct plumage and predatory profiles of raptors. The plate specifically identifies:L'Autour (Northern Goshawk), L'Autour à ventre rayé (Barred-vented Hawk variant,Le Busard (Harrier),La Buse cendrée (Ash-coloured Buzzard or Grey Hawk).This work was sourced from the Encyclopédie, ou Dictionnaire raisonné des sciences, des arts et des métiers, edited by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert and published in Paris. Robert Benard served as the director of the engraving department for this monumental project, which sought to catalog the entirety of human knowledge during the Enlightenment. The precision of the linework allowed for the accurate study of avian anatomy, which was a primary focus of eighteenth-century naturalists.
Robert Benard was a French engraver who specialized in technical and scientific illustration during the eighteenth century. He served as the primary engraver for the Académie Royale des Sciences and the director of the engraving department for Diderot's Encyclopédie. His body of work is characterized by a precise and methodical linear style that was ideally suited for documenting complex mechanical trades and natural history specimens. Benard is credited with overseeing the production of over two thousand plates that contributed to the global dissemination of French Enlightenment knowledge.
Artist or Maker: Robert Benard.
Dimensions: Approximately 28 cm x 21 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: (Late 18th Century).
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
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| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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