Bilder Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon (1707–1788) – The Imbrim or Great Loon of the North Sea – Engraving (Circa 1775–1783)

Beskrivning

This ornithological illustration depicts a large water bird, identified as L'IMBRIM OU GRAND PLONGEON DE LA MER DU NORD (The Imbrim or Great Loon of the North Sea). This refers to the Great Northern Loon or Common Loon (Gavia immer), a species of diving bird native to the northern regions of Europe and North America. The bird is shown in a full-body profile, standing on a rocky outcrop by the water, highlighting its distinctive patterned breeding plumage (a black head and neck with a spotted white and black body) and its robust build. The scene includes a backdrop of rocks and wooden structures, docks or fishing stages. 

Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon was a renowned French naturalist, mathematician, and cosmologist. His extensive work, Histoire Naturelle, générale et particulière, and its dedicated nine-volume section on birds (Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux, 1770–1783), set a new standard for natural history documentation. This print is a non-colored plate from that work, which was published by the Imprimerie Royale in Paris.

Artist or Maker: Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon

Dimensions: Approximately 26 × 19 cm

Medium: Engraving

Date: Circa 1775–1783

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.