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1812 Hippopotamus skeleton by Cuvier
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1812 Hippopotamus skeleton by Cuvier
Skeleton of a hippopotamus, fine folio copperplate engraving from Cuviers " Ossamens Fossiles". Cuvier saw that the key to understanding fossils was to relate their bones to animals currently known. In this he was the father of comparative anatomy - a field that was to be crucial to the founding of modern biology. Here a hippo provides reference for the even larger bones of the extinct megafauna that was being discovered in the environs of Paris and elsewhere in Cuviers time. Cuvier actually mistook some of the first iguanodon bone material discovered by Gideon Mantell (and shown to him by Charles Lyell) for that of a hippo, but he later changed his mind and gave Mantell credit for the discovery
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6346651
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Black And White Comparative Anatomy Cuvier Fossil Herbivore Hippo Hippopotamus Iguanodon Mantell Mistake Mono Chrome
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This print showcases the 1812 Hippopotamus skeleton by Cuvier, a remarkable piece of art from the 19th century. The fine folio copperplate engraving is taken from Cuvier's renowned work "Ossamens Fossiles" where he revolutionized the study of fossils through comparative anatomy. Cuvier understood that to comprehend these ancient remains, one must relate them to existing animals. In this particular illustration, a hippo serves as a reference point for the colossal bones of extinct megafauna discovered during Cuvier's time in Paris and beyond. It highlights his initial misinterpretation of some iguanodon bone material found by Gideon Mantell but later credited to him for its discovery. Cuvier's groundbreaking contributions laid the foundation for modern biology, making him known as the father of comparative anatomy. This monochrome artwork not only captures his scientific prowess but also evokes a sense of wonder at nature's mysteries and our quest to unravel them. Paul D. Stewart masterfully brings this historical moment to life through his artistic interpretation, allowing us to appreciate both the scientific significance and aesthetic beauty within this mesmerizing print.
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