Bilder Francis Willughby (1635-1672) – View of Waterfowl and an Auk – Engraving (1678)

Beskrivning

"Alca Hoieri, Merganser, Albellus" This engraving illustrates several species of aquatic birds, including a razorbill, a goosander, and a smew, with a separate detail of a bird's head and beak at the top. The technical nature is a copper engraving. It was published in the English edition of The Ornithology of Francis Willughby, titled The Ornithology of Francis Willughby of Middleton in the County of Warwick, which was edited and completed by John Ray in London. This work is foundational to the field of modern ornithology, as it was the first to organize bird species based on their physical characteristics rather than their behavior or mythology.

Francis Willughby was an English ornithologist and ichthyologist who was a pioneer in the systematic study of natural history. He traveled extensively throughout Europe with John Ray to collect specimens and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Willughby's early death left Ray to complete and publish their joint research, which revolutionized the way animals were classified. His work laid the groundwork for future scientists, including Carl Linnaeus, and marked a significant shift toward empirical observation in the biological sciences.

Artist or Maker: Francis Willughby.

Dimensions: Approximately 33 cm x 21 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1678.

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.