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Spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca
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Spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca
Spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca.. Handcolored copperplate engraving from The Naturalists Pocket Magazine, Harrison, London, 1800
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14212284
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
Naturalistspocketmagazine Specimen Spur
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1. Title: "A Regal Figure from the African Savannah: The Spur-thighed Tortoise (Testudo graeca), as Depicted in an 1800 Handcolored Copperplate Engraving The captivating image before you presents the Spur-thighed Tortoise (Testudo graeca), a majestic reptile native to the African continent. This exquisite handcolored copperplate engraving, published in The Naturalist's Pocket Magazine in 1800, offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural history of this remarkable creature. The Spur-thighed Tortoise, also known as the African Spurred Tortoise or the Greek Tortoise, is easily recognizable by the distinctive spurs on the insides of its hind legs. These spurs, used as a defense mechanism, are not visible in this illustration but are suggested by the intricate texturing of the tortoise's legs. The tortoise is shown in a garden setting, likely indicative of its popularity as a prized exotic pet during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its size, reaching up to 30 inches (76 cm) in length, made it an impressive sight, and its hard, protective shell provided a sense of security for collectors. This engraving, produced during the height of the Age of Enlightenment, reflects the growing fascination with zoology and the natural world. The meticulous attention to detail in the illustration, from the intricate texturing of the tortoise's scales to the delicate rendering of its eyes, speaks to the skill and dedication of the natural history illustrators of the time. The Spur-thighed Tortoise continues to fascinate us today, both for its historical significance and its intriguing adaptations. This image serves as a reminder of the rich natural history knowledge that has been passed down through the centuries, and the enduring allure of the natural world.
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