Bilder Jacques Eustache de Sève (1742–1788) – L’Hippopotame / The Hippopotamus – Copperplate Engraving (Late 18th Century)

Beskrivning

This copperplate engraving by Jacques Eustache de Sève depicts a young hippopotamus reclining on a draped table in an elegant interior, with naturalistic landscape elements visible through a rear window. The image contrasts the exotic animal with a refined European setting — a typical Enlightenment-era device for presenting rare species as both objects of scientific inquiry and symbols of colonial curiosity. The engraving was published as part of the monumental Histoire Naturelle, edited by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, and is marked “Pl. III. Pag. 68” and “Dixon XIII”.

Jacques Eustache de Sève (1742–1788) was a French illustrator renowned for his zoological and anatomical engravings. He collaborated extensively with Buffon, producing hundreds of scientifically and artistically refined plates that became foundational in natural history illustration. His engravings are prized for their detail, compositional balance, and subtle narrative elements that blend empirical observation with visual elegance.

Artist or Maker:
Jacques Eustache de Sève

Dimensions:
27 cm x 20 cm

Medium:
Copperplate Engraving

Date:
Late 18th Century

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.