Abbé Pluche (1688-1761) was a French priest. His full name was Noel-Antoine Pluche. He is best known for his work about science and natural history. Take a deep breath before you read its title!
It was "Spectacle de la nature, ou Entretiens sur les particularités de l'Histoire naturelle qui ont paru les plus propres à rendre les jeunes gens curieux et à leur former l'esprit."
Published in 1732, "Spectacle" influenced many youngsters to become naturalists. It included fascinating engravings about life, the heavens and science.
A lady, Louise-Magdeleine Horthemels, made many of the engravings. This was unusual for the time - clearly she was exceptionally talented.
Here are some of the engravings from "Spectacle de la nature" for you to choose from. They are genuine antique prints, made in 1732.
