Antique Pair of 1700s Framed Canine Study Book Plates from Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon’s Histoire Naturelle

This exquisite pair of framed antique copperplate engravings features two distinct canine studies, "Le Matin" and "Le Grand Danois," originally published in Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon’s monumental 18th-century work, Histoire Naturelle. Based on the specific scholarly notations and the workshop signature "B. dir." (Bernigeroth direxit), these plates originate from the prestigious Leipzig edition of Buffon’s work, printed between 1752 and 1765. This edition was overseen by the renowned engraver Johann Martin Bernigeroth, making these pieces approximately 260 to 270 years old.

The engravings represent a fascinating era of natural history; "Le Matin" depicts a powerful French hound that Buffon believed was a foundational ancestor to many modern breeds, while "Le Grand Danois" offers a rare look at an early, leaner iteration of the Great Dane. Each plate retains its original binding instructions, such as "Tom. I" and "p. 372," which served as guides for 18th-century bookbinders. The intricate line work and scientific accuracy of the copperplate method are beautifully preserved, showcasing the mastery of the Bernigeroth workshop.

The prints are elegantly housed in classic black wooden frames with a delicate gold-beaded inner lip, which beautifully complements the warm, aged patina of the paper. They are professionally matted behind a textured, neutral-toned linen mat that provides a sophisticated depth to the presentation. The reverse side of the frames bears the label of "The Framemaker" from Birmingham, Michigan, ensuring a high-quality finish. With their striking aesthetic and deep historical significance, these book plates serve as a timeless addition to any collection of natural history or refined antique décor.

Condition:
Expected foxing to the antique prints consistent with antique age. Minor wear to frame consistent with vintage age.

Measurements (approximate - rounded to the nearest quarter inch):
10.75 inches in height
8.75 inches in width
0.75 inches in depth

All sales are final so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions prior to purchase. Other objects found in the listing photos are for decorative use only and not included in this purchase.

VINTAGE & ANTIQUE
Vintage and antique items are pre-owned and aged goods. In most cases, we do not clean or polish any items that come into our shop. Once you remove an item's traces of age and patina it's not something you can reverse, so we leave those activities up to the buyer. We do not disassemble found art from their frames unless it is necessary to differentiate a print from an original piece of art. Vintage prints purchased from this shop could originate from any print media (e.g., magazines, books, photographs, art prints, etc.). We try our best to describe items accurately and disclose any and all flaws and imperfections. Please refer to pictures as a visual description. We want to make sure you are happy with your purchase so, please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have prior to checkout.

SHIPPING
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PHOTOGRAPHY
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