Title
Cabinet of Natural Curiosities: The Colored Plates 17341765
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From the dust jacket: Albertus Seba s Cabinet of Natural Curiosities is one of the 18th century s greates naturalhistory achievements and remains one of the most prized naturalhistory books of all time. Though it was common for me of his profession to collect natural specimens for research purposes, Amsterdambased pharmacist Albertus Seba (16651736) had a passion that led hmi far beyond the call of duty. His amazing, unprecedented collection of animals, plants and insects from all around the world gained international fame during his lifetime. In 1731, after decades of collecting, he commissioned illustrations of each and every specimen and arranged the publication of a fourvolume catalogue detailing his entire collection from strange and exotic plants to snakes, frogs, crocodiles, shellfish, corals, insects, butterflies and more, as well as fantastic beasts such as a sevenheaded hydra. The beautiful illustrations transport these creatures from the scientific world of specimens into extremely aesthetic and vivid scenes, where plants and animals intermingle. It is this narrative element that continues to lend the book much of its special fascination. This magnificent reporduction of all 449 of the original plates is taken from a rare, handcoloured copy at the Koninklijke Bibliotheek, The Hague. The introduction provides background information on the intriguing tradition of the cabinet of curiosities to which Seba s collection belonged, while an additional annex written by contemporary scientists provides descriptions of the specimens. A journey into the past and at the same time a road to rediscovering the wonders of Nature, which remain as vital as ever. OVERSIZED BOOK approx. 9x15x2, weight 6.5 lbs., English, Latin.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures approximately nine inches by fifteen inches by two inches. Its oversized format makes it a visually striking addition to any collection.
- Q: How many pages does the book contain? A: This book contains four hundred fifteen pages. It includes a comprehensive collection of illustrations and descriptions of natural specimens.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: The book features a hardcover binding. This sturdy construction ensures durability and longevity for repeated use.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author of this book is Albertus Seba. He was an Amsterdam-based pharmacist known for his extensive collection of natural specimens.
- Q: What language is the book published in? A: The book is published in English and Latin. This bilingual format adds to its scholarly appeal.
- Q: What is the historical significance of this book? A: The book is considered one of the greatest natural-history achievements of the eighteenth century. It remains a prized work for its detailed illustrations and fascinating content.
- Q: How should I care for this book? A: To keep the book in good condition, store it upright in a dry, cool place. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Q: Is this book suitable for children? A: Yes, this book is suitable for older children and adults, especially those interested in natural history and science. However, some content may be complex for younger readers.
- Q: How do I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: To clean the book, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the cover. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions that could damage the pages.
- Q: What type of illustrations are included in the book? A: The book includes four hundred forty-nine stunning color plates. These illustrations depict a variety of animals, plants, and insects from around the world.
- Q: Can I find this book in libraries? A: Yes, many libraries may have this book available, particularly those with strong collections in natural history or art. It's worth checking your local library's catalog.
- Q: Is this book a good gift for nature enthusiasts? A: Yes, this book makes an excellent gift for nature enthusiasts and collectors. Its rich illustrations and historical context are sure to impress.
- Q: What additional content is included in the book? A: In addition to the illustrations, the book includes an introduction and an annex written by contemporary scientists. This provides valuable context and descriptions of the specimens.
- Q: Where was this book published? A: The book was published by Taschen America LLC. Taschen is known for producing high-quality art books with stunning visuals.
- Q: Is the book a reproduction of the original plates? A: Yes, this book is a magnificent reproduction of all four hundred forty-nine original plates. It captures the detail and beauty of the hand-colored copies.