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Coral sea fans or Alcyonacea species
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Coral sea fans or Alcyonacea species
Coral sea fan, Alcyonacea species, Isidis palma 1, Erica marina 2, and sea fan, Alcyonacea species, Keratophyton spinosum nigrum 3. Handcoloured copperplate engraving after an illustration by Johann Christoph Keller from Georg Wolfgang Knorrs Deliciae Naturae Selectae of Kabinet van Zeldzaamheden der Natuur, Blusse and Son, Nuremberg, 1771. Specimens from a Wunderkammer or Cabinet of Curiosities owned by Dr. Christoph Jacob Trew in Nuremberg
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Media ID 23184658
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Auserlesenes Christoph Coral Deliciae Erica Georg Johann Keller Knorr Marina Naturae Naturalien Cabinet Nigrum Oder Palma Selectae Species Wolfgang Zoological Alcyonacea Gorgonian Spinosum
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving showcases a stunning collection of Coral Sea Fans, or Alcyonacea species, discovered in the depths of the ocean during the 18th century. The illustration, created by the skilled hand of Johann Christoph Keller, was published in Georg Wolfgang Knorr's Deliciae Naturae Selectae, or Select Rarities of Nature, in 1771. The first specimen depicted is the Isidis palma, a large and elegant sea fan with delicate, feathery branches. The second and third specimens are identified as Erica marina and Keratophyton spinosum nigrum, respectively. The Erica marina, also known as the red coral sea fan, boasts vibrant red coloration and intricate branching patterns. In contrast, the Keratophyton spinosum nigrum, or black sea fan, displays darker, almost black branches adorned with small, spiny projections. These Coral Sea Fans, or gorgonians, are a vital part of the coral reef ecosystem, providing shelter and food for various marine organisms. Their intricate structures and diverse colors have long intrigued naturalists and collectors, making them highly sought-after additions to Wunderkammern, or Cabinets of Curiosities. This particular engraving was part of the extensive collection owned by Dr. Christoph Jacob Trew in Nuremberg, Germany. The meticulous attention to detail in the illustration and the vibrant colors of the hand-coloring process make this a truly remarkable piece of zoological history. The Deliciae Naturae Selectae was a groundbreaking work that showcased the beauty and diversity of the natural world, inspiring generations of naturalists and collectors to explore the depths of the ocean and the mysteries of the natural world.
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