Original Antique Print of Eight Exotic Crabs by Bertuch, c.1820

Original Antique Print of Eight Exotic Crabs by Bertuch, c.1820

Original antique hand-colored engraving depicting eight remarkable species and forms of crabs, published as part of Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s celebrated “Bilderbuch für Kinder” in Weimar during the early 19th century.

The plate is titled “Insecten LXXXIX / Insecta LXXXIX / Insectes LXXXIX” and bears the reference “XII.B.29” at lower right.

Although classified under “Insects” according to the broader historical terminology of the period, the subjects are crustaceans. Eight individually numbered crabs are represented, displaying an extraordinary variety of body shapes, claws, legs and shell structures.

Several specimens are shown from above, allowing the different forms of their carapaces and claws to be compared. Others, particularly Figs. 6, 7 and 8, are illustrated from below, revealing the complex structure of the underside, folded legs and abdominal plates.

The central Fig. 1 is particularly decorative, with a strongly colored reddish-orange shell and substantial claws. Other specimens range from pale cream and ochre to yellow, pink and deep brown.

The combination of dorsal and ventral views reflects the educational purpose of Bertuch’s publication and the increasing scientific interest in comparative zoology during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The engraving is enhanced with original hand coloring in attractive shades of coral red, pink, ochre, yellow and brown. The symmetrical arrangement of the eight crustaceans gives the plate considerable decorative appeal, making it particularly suitable for coastal, maritime and natural-history inspired interiors.

Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) was a German publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “Bilderbuch für Kinder” was one of the most ambitious illustrated educational encyclopedias of its period, covering zoology, botany, geography, science, technology, antiquity and many other subjects.

Creator:

Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822)

Source:

Bilderbuch für Kinder

Plate:

Insecten LXXXIX / Insecta LXXXIX / Insectes LXXXIX

Reference:

XII.B.29

Subject:

Eight Crabs / Crustaceans

Place of Publication:

Weimar, Germany

Date of Manufacture:

Circa 1820

Period:

Early 19th Century

Style:

Neoclassical, In the Period of

Medium:

Original hand-colored engraving on paper

Condition:

Good. Wear consistent with age and use. General age-related toning and scattered foxing and spotting. Noticeable brown staining and discoloration along the right side. Minor marginal wear, handling marks and small edge imperfections. Original hand coloring remains attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition.

Please note:

This is an original antique engraving, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.

Other companion marine-life and natural-history plates from Bertuch’s “Bilderbuch für Kinder” are also available separately.

Keywords:

antique crab print, crab engraving, eight crabs, crustacean print, antique crustaceans, marine life print, shellfish print, natural history print, marine zoology, ocean decor, coastal wall art, cabinet of curiosities, Bertuch print, Friedrich Justin Bertuch, hand colored engraving, early 19th century