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Fossil skeleton of the giant ground sloth, Megatherium
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Fossil skeleton of the giant ground sloth, Megatherium
Fossil skeleton of the giant ground sloth, Megatherium americanum. Megaterio di Cuvier. Handcoloured copperplate stipple engraving from Antoine Laurent de Jussieus Dizionario delle Scienze Naturali, Dictionary of Natural Science, Florence, Italy, 1837. Illustration engraved by Corsi, drawn by Jean Gabriel Pretre and directed by Pierre Jean-Francois Turpin, and published by Batelli e Figli. Turpin (1775-1840) is considered one of the greatest French botanical illustrators of the 19th century
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Media ID 23386984
© Florilegius
1837 Antoine Commune Delle Dictionary Dinosaur Dizionario Extinct Florence Fossil Francois Giant Jussieu Laurent Megatherium Naturali Pierre Scienze Skeleton Sloth Stipple Turpin Anoplotherium
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This stunning hand-colored copperplate stipple engraving depicts the fossil skeleton of the extinct giant ground sloth, Megatherium americanum. The engraving, titled "Megatherio di Cuvier," is an illustration from Antoine Laurent de Jussieu's "Dizionario delle Scienze Naturali," or "Dictionary of Natural Sciences," published in Florence, Italy, in 1837. The illustration was engraved by Corsi, drawn by Jean Gabriel Pretre, and directed by Pierre Jean-Francois Turpin. Turpin (1775-1840) was a renowned French botanical illustrator of the 19th century, known for his meticulous attention to detail and artistic skill. This particular illustration showcases the impressive size and structure of Megatherium, a giant ground sloth that roamed South America during the Pleistocene epoch. With an estimated weight of up to 7 tons and a length of up to 10 feet, Megatherium was one of the largest mammals to have ever existed. The skeleton is displayed with the skeletons of two smaller ground sloths, Anoplotherium commune, for comparison. The engraving also includes labels identifying various bones and their corresponding names in both Latin and French. The intricate stipple engraving technique used in this illustration allows for the fine details of the bones to be clearly visible, providing a detailed and accurate representation of these extinct creatures. Megatherium and other ground sloths are not to be confused with dinosaurs, as they are mammals, not reptiles. The study of fossils like these is an essential part of zoology, helping scientists understand the history and evolution of various species. This beautiful and intricate illustration is a testament to the scientific curiosity and artistic skill of the past, offering a glimpse into the natural world that once was.
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