12394 Robert Benard (1734–1777) – Natural History: Ornithological Studies of Barbets and Puffbirds – Engraving (c. 1770–1780)
"Histoire Naturelle, Ornithologie". This scientific engraving features four distinct species of birds perching on branches, meticulously rendered to show plumage patterns and beak structures. The plate specifically identifies: Le Grand Barbu de la Chine (Great Barbet) Le Barbu de Maynas (Versicolored Barbet variant) Le Tamatia tacheté (Spotted Puffbird) Le Barbu à gorge noire (Black-throated Barbet) This work was sourced from the monumental Encyclopedie, ou Dictionnaire raisonne des sciences, des arts et des metiers by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert, specifically from the volumes dedicated to Natural History. Robert Benard was the director of the engraving department for the Encyclopedie and was responsible for thousands of copperplates. His technical precision and clear linear style were essential for the Enlightenment-era goal of documenting and categorizing the natural world.
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 Academie Royale des Sciences and the director of the engraving department for Diderot's Encyclopedie. 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.
| Värdering | 200 - 300 SEK |
| Köparprovision (inkl. moms) | 24.4% |
| Slagavgift (inkl. moms) | 6 SEK |
Dahlströms Rare Prints
Harju maakond, Tallinn
Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415
Estland
info@dahlstromsrareprints.com
© Software Copyright 2026 Skeleton. All rights reserved.