Fine Rare Prints

Antique print of sea shells by Sowerby from 1842

Tropical Cone Shells

SOLD - order #6948

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Information

An immaculate antique print of sea shells by G.F.Sowerby Jnr.

Shell collecting was a popular eighteenth- and nineteenth-century pastime. During this era of exploration, shells from exotic lands were eagerly sought by collectors and the genteel classes to fill the curiosity cabinets considered indispensable in the well-appointed home.

Whilst shell collecting was popular, it is worth noting that relatively few prints illustrating shells in color were ever produced. Considering that pictures of shells are popular to this day, it is no surprise that antique prints of shells are both scarce and in great demand.

George Brettingham Sowerby junior was part of a remarkable family of natural-history illustrators. His grandfather James was a botanical illustrator par excellence. His three sons all followed in his footsteps, as did three grandsons and one great-grandson. George Brettingham jnr. took over the mantle of conchologist from his father, and in time passed it on to his son of the same name. He went on to produce a large body of work, including a large body of work on shells which took three generations of Sowerbys over forty-five years to complete. (Ref. Dance, 'A History of Shell Collecting', p. 140).

Date

Published in London in 1842. This is a genuine antique print.

Print method

Hand colored engravings

Condition

Excellent condition - as fresh as the day they were printed. No foxing.

Size

Approximately 8.75" by 5.5"(22 cm by 14cm). The shells cover most of the paper.

How to order

Please note the order number for this print which is shown at the top of the page. Then click on the Order button at the top or the Order link at the bottom of this page.