Fossil Sea Sponge: Alcyonite

28.5 x 22 cm (11.5 x 8 inches).

This is an original antique engraving from James Parkinson's landmark work on fossils "Organic Remains of a Former World" and was made in 1804. This work was a major contribution to the development of paleontology and consisted of a series of letters and accompanying hand colored engravings. Some of the early letters are quite amusing and illustrate how little was known about fossils when Parkinson began his work. For example, in his first letter he describes "bones of giants...fairies night caps... and innumerable frozen thunderbolts." This print was made by copper plate engraving and has superb hand coloring. The paper is an attractive very light tan color. It's in very good condition.

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