12493 Robert Benard (1734–1777) – Herpetological Study of Snakes – Engraving (1791)
"Le Tortu. L'Hipnale." This eighteenth-century engraving provides a scientific illustration of two distinct snake species. The upper figure, labeled as the tortu, showcases a robust body with prominent dark dorsal spotting and a broad, rounded head. The lower figure, the hipnale, is depicted in a coiled posture, featuring a more slender body with variegated markings and a distinctly shaped triangular head. The engraving utilizes fine line work to detail the individual scales and the anatomical contours of the reptiles. This work was published in Paris as part of the natural history section of the Encyclopedie Methodique, an influential scholarly series published by Charles-Joseph Panckoucke.
Robert Benard was a prolific French engraver who specialized in technical and scientific illustrations. He served as the primary director for the engraving of the monumental plates for Diderot and d’Alembert’s Encyclopedie, and later for the Encyclopedie Methodique. His work is characterized by a high degree of precision and systematic clarity, which was essential for the taxonomic classification of the animal kingdom during the eighteenth century. Benard’s massive output of thousands of copperplates significantly influenced the visual language of science and helped standardize the representation of natural history across Europe.
Artist or Maker: Robert Benard.
Dimensions: Approximately 29 cm x 21 cm.
Medium: Engraving.
Date: 1791.
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 |
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