Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Museums > Natural History Museum
Physalia pelagica, jellyfish model
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Physalia pelagica, jellyfish model
A glass model of a jellyfish, created by Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka in the late nineteenth century and held at the Natural History Museum, London
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14238040
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
1822 1895 1857 1939 Blaschka Cnidaria Cnidarian Coelenterata Coelenterate Fragile Hydrozoa Hydrozoan Jelly Jelly Fish Jellyfish Leopold Leopold Blaschka Leptolida Leptolina Leptolinae Man Of War Medusa Jellyfish Medusozoa Physalia Physaliidae Rudolf Rudolf Blaschka Siphonophora Siphonophorae Siphonophore Tentacle Invertebrata Physalia Physalis Portuguese Man Of War
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Fishes
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> Natural History Museum
EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning glass model of Physalia pelagica, also known as the Portuguese Man-of-War, is a captivating testament to the intricacies of the natural world. Created by the renowned father-and-son team of Leopold (1822-1895) and Rudolf Blaschka (1857-1939) in the late 19th century, this exquisite piece is held at the Natural History Museum in London. The Blaschka's meticulously crafted this delicate work of art using glass, showcasing the beauty and complexity of this enigmatic cnidarian. Physalia pelagica, a member of the Siphonophorae order, is not actually a single jellyfish but rather a colony of organisms called siphonophores. The colony consists of a floating gas-filled float, a stinging man-of-war, and various tentacle-bearing organisms called zooids. The man-of-war, the most recognizable part of the colony, is actually a large, transparent, bell-shaped structure that houses the reproductive organs. The tentacles, which can reach up to 30 feet (9 meters) in length, are lined with stinging cells called nematocysts, used to capture prey. Despite its intimidating appearance, the Portuguese Man-of-War is not a true jellyfish, belonging instead to the class Hydrozoa. This model, with its intricate details and lifelike textures, provides a unique glimpse into the world of coelenterates, a diverse group of invertebrates that includes jellyfish, corals, and sea anemones. The Blaschka's masterful creation serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations to marvel at.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
