Bonnaterre Reptile, Amphibian Prints 1789-1790

We are pleased to offer a selection of reptile prints from the Tableau Encyclopedique er Methodique des Trois Regnes de la Nature by Monsieur L’Abbe Bonnaterre, published 1789-1790. This was the largest encyclopedia of the enlightenment, covering all aspects of the natural world, in the comprehensive mode that was very much the driving force of the era.

Bonnaterre (1752?-1804), was a priest in the Rouergue and professor at the central school of Rhodes. The publisher Panckouke employed Bonnaterre to contribute to the Encyclopédie méthodique, in the areas of mammals, birds, reptiles, fishes and insects. References include Pietsch,1995 & Nissen, 1969.

These prints are all ORIGINAL copper engravings from 1789-1790 that have been exquisitely hand colored by one of the few remaining professional colorists in England whose specialty is reptiles, and following descriptions & images of the species illustrated. Each print measures approximately 9 inches wide by 12 inches long. The condition of the plates is excellent, with the paper being a fine, heavy, watermarked chain lined type with strong plate marks. There are few fox marks or other blemishes & the paper is a creamy white. A copy of the title page will be included with each print. These prints are about 215 years old.