Fine Rare Prints

Information

This is a lovely large antique print of sea shells from a very rare and valuable set of prints about shells by G.B.Sowerby. This is one of the rarest sets of prints featuring sea shells that we were very lucky to find. The only in the world we are aware of is for sale for about US $16,000.

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.

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

This print is from a work published in parts in London from about 1842-1886. This is a genuine antique print.

Print method

Hand colored lithograph

Condition

Very good condition. No foxing.

Size

Approximately 11 by 7.25 inches (27 cm by 18.5cm).

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.