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1812 Sloth skeleton by Cuvier
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1812 Sloth skeleton by Cuvier
Skeleton of a three toad sloth, or Ai, copperplate engraving from Cuviers " Ossamens Fossiles" 1812. 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 modern sloth provides reference for the even larger bones of the extinct ground sloth megatherium that had been discovered in South America and displayed in Spain. Cuvier was among the first to realise the reality of extinction
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6347995
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Black And White Comparative Anatomy Cuvier Fossil Giant Ground Sloth Herbivore Megatherium Mylodon Sloth Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "1812 Sloth skeleton by Cuvier" takes us back to a pivotal moment in the history of biology. Created by Paul D. Stewart, this stunning illustration showcases the skeleton of a three-toed sloth, or Ai, as depicted in Cuvier's renowned work "Ossamens Fossiles" from 1812. Cuvier's groundbreaking insight was to connect fossils with living animals, laying the foundation for comparative anatomy and modern biology. In this artwork, we witness his genius at play as he juxtaposes the bones of an ancient ground sloth called megatherium with those of a contemporary sloth species. The sheer size difference between these two creatures is awe-inspiring. The giant skeletal remains of megatherium were discovered in South America and later displayed in Spain. Cuvier was among the first scientists to comprehend that extinction was not just a possibility but a reality—an idea that revolutionized our understanding of life on Earth. Through this monochrome engraving, Stewart skillfully captures both the scientific significance and artistic beauty inherent in Cuvier's work. This piece serves as a testament to how art can illuminate scientific discoveries and inspire curiosity about our planet's rich natural history.
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