Bilder Johannes Jonstonus (1603–1675) – Study of Sharks and Marine Monsters – Copper engraving (1650)

Beskrivning

"Studies of Sharks and Sea Monsters" depicts a variety of marine life including sharks and mythical sea creatures, featuring detailed renderings of a hammerhead shark identified as Zygaena, a thresher shark identified as Vulpecula Marina, and a sawfish. The composition includes anatomical studies of shark jaws at the top and fantastical entities like the Simia Marina, shown with a humanoid head and a serpentine body. This copper engraving is from the work Historiae Naturalis, published in Frankfurt by Matthäus Merian.

Johannes Jonstonus was a Polish born physician and naturalist of Scottish descent who authored several influential encyclopedic works on the natural world. He is primarily known for synthesizing the botanical and zoological knowledge of the Renaissance into widely circulated volumes that remained standard references for decades. His publications provided a comprehensive visual record of global fauna for a European audience. He collaborated with the Merian publishing house in Frankfurt to produce highly detailed scientific illustrations.

Artist or Maker:
Johannes Jonstonus.

Dimensions:
Approximately 34 cm x 21 cm.

Medium:
Copper engraving.

Date:
1650.

SKL66_10-03-2026_3

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.