Anatomical Studies of Bats from 'The Mammals' Natural History Lithographs, 1836

Here is a detailed description of the two bat lithographs:

One print presents four different species of bats, meticulously rendered with a focus on their anatomical features. The bats are shown either fully extended or in profile, highlighting the unique physical traits of each species.

1. De staartloore met het dikke mondblad

English: Tailless Bat with Thick Mouth Leaf

This bat is characterized by its lack of a visible tail and a pronounced thick leaf-like structure around its mouth, typical of bats that rely on echolocation.

2. De langneusige rozenvlieger

English: Long-nosed Rosette Bat

Known for its elongated nose, this bat is part of a group that often feeds on fruit or nectar, and its nose likely aids in detecting food.

3. De rozen met de haarelip

English: Bat with Hairy Lip

This species stands out due to its distinctive "hairy" lip feature, possibly linked to sensory or feeding adaptations.

4. De Javaansche nachtvlieder

English: Javanese Night-flyer

Native to the Indonesian island of Java, this bat is adapted for night hunting, with large wings and keen senses for detecting prey in the dark.

The second print shows a variety of common bat species (labeled "Gemeene Vledermuizen"), each depicted in their characteristic postures. The details highlight the diversity of forms, including differences in wing shape, ear size, and facial structure.

1. De langoorige

English: Long-eared Bat

As the name suggests, this species has prominently long ears, aiding in its ability to echolocate prey, often insects.

2. De Vreegvliegende

English: Frog-eating Bat

This bat is specialized for hunting frogs and other small amphibians, using its keen sense of hearing to detect the calls of its prey.

3. De dwergachtige

English: Dwarf Bat

One of the smallest bats depicted, the dwarf bat is noted for its compact size and rapid flight, often found in dense forests or urban environments.

4. De vledermuis met het gelande neusblad

English: Bat with Folded Nose Leaf

This species is distinguished by its complex nose structure, often used to focus echolocation calls for precise hunting.

These lithographs, produced by Cornelis Christiaan Antonie Last and published by S. de Visser, form part of "De Zoogdieren: afgebeeld en in hunne levenswijze geschetst". Each bat is captured in detailed anatomical accuracy, providing insight into the physical diversity and adaptations of bat species. These illustrations not only serve as scientific documentation but also as a testament to the aesthetic and technical skill of the artist and the lithographic process.