I went back to my source in Germany to scoop up another handful of these gorgeous c. 1840s zoological watercolors, having sold the last several I had quickly. This is not a hand-colored engraving, it is an original, gorgeously executed ink and watercolor drawing, and my photos do it no justice; the color and detail on those shells is just glorious! Whether made in advance of, or after, an engraving for a zoological volume I am not certain--whatever the case, quite a different thing in watercolor, and with the fine execution amplifying a sense of wonder at creatures already quite wondrous! Here, from top to bottom, Greek, African, European Pond and Hinge-back tortoises, I believe.  Beautiful rendering, magical creatures.

Approx 10 3/4 x 8 1/4. Very good condition, and much much richer and more special in hand.