Histoire Naturelle Fish Print Engraved By Benard and Beautifully Hand Colored
Histoire Naturelle
17 1/2” X 21 “
Planche 97
Fig. 395
Le Jagague
Fig. 397
La L’euve Coquette
Fig. 396
Le Chirurgien
Benard Direxit
This handsome hand colored and attractively framed fish print would make a striking addition to any room in your home or office. This print is engraved by the famous Benard Direxit, circa 1700, who was a leading naturalist and artist for the Histoire Naturell.
It features three striking examples of fine hand engraving, by this very famous artists, who helped form and contribute to the Histoire Naturelle as it was formed in Paris France. It is in excellent condition and clearly a unique piece of art.
What does Histoire Naturelle mean and why is it important ?
The Musée national d'Histoire naturelle (MNHN) is the National Museum of Natural History in France. World famous as the leading authority of Botanical and Natural History Science which includes precious drawings, etchings and other scientific study and findings of the earth.
Brief History
The museum was formally founded on 10 June 1793, during the French Revolution. Its origins lie, however, in the Jardin royal des plantes médicinales (Royal Medicinal Plant Garden) created by King Louis XIII in 1635, which was directed and run by the royal physicians. The royal proclamation of the boy-king Louis XV on 31 March 1718, however, removed the medical function, enabling the garden—which became known simply as the Jardin du Roi (King's Garden)—to focus on natural history.
For much of the 18th century (1739–1788), the garden was under the direction of Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, one of the leading naturalists of the Enlightenment, bringing international fame and prestige to the establishment. Incorporated as the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle in 1793, opening in 1794 with, as one of its foundation professors, eminent evolutionary pioneer Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck. The museum's aims were to instruct the public, put together collections and conduct scientific research. It continued to flourish during the 19th century, and, particularly under the direction of chemist Michel Eugène Chevreul, became a rival to the University of Paris in scientific research. For example, during the period that Henri Becquerel held the chair for Applied Physics at the Muséum (1892-1908) he discovered the radiation properties of uranium. (Four generations of Becquerels held this chairmanship, from 1838 to 1948.[1])
A decree of 12 December 1891 ended this phase, returning the museum to an emphasis on natural history. After receiving financial autonomy in 1907, it began a new phase of growth, opening facilities throughout France during the interwar years. In recent decades, it has directed its research and education efforts at the effects of human exploitation on the environment. In French public administration, the Muséum is classed as a grand établissement of higher education.
