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Sea unicorn or narwhal, Monodon monoceros
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Sea unicorn or narwhal, Monodon monoceros
Sea unicorn or narwhal, Monodon monoceros. Rare specimen with double tusks. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by James Sowerby from The British Miscellany, or Coloured figures of new, rare, or little known animal subjects, London, 1804
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Media ID 23203912
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Double Figures Horn Miscellany Monoceros Monodon Narwhal Narwhale Rare Sowerby Subjects Tusk Unicorn
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This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving showcases a rare specimen of the Sea Unicorn or Narwhal, Monodon monoceros. The Narwhal, also known as the "unicorn of the sea," is a large toothed whale native to the Arctic waters. This engraving, created by the renowned English naturalist and illustrator James Sowerby for The British Miscellany, or Coloured Figures of New, Rare, or Little Known Animal Subjects, published in London in 1804, captures the mythical allure of this elusive marine creature. The Narwhal is distinguished by its long, helical tusk, which can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length. In this particular specimen, the tusk appears to have a double helix, making it an even more intriguing and rare find. The Narwhal's body is sleek and streamlined, with a thick layer of blubber to help it survive in the cold Arctic waters. Its skin is dark grey or black, and it has a small, rounded dorsal fin. The Narwhal's tusk is not actually a horn, but rather a long, twisted tooth that grows from the upper left jaw. It is believed to function as a sensory organ, allowing the whale to detect changes in water temperature, pressure, and salinity. This engraving, with its meticulous attention to detail and vibrant colors, provides a fascinating glimpse into the natural world of the past and the wonders of the deep sea.
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