[Cuvier, Baron].

Red platypus, Ornithorhynchus rufus. Color engraving.

London: G. B. Whittaker, June 1825. An appealing hand colored copper engraving depicting a red platypus, from 'The Animal Kingdom' by Baron Cuvier. The hind limb of this male platypus clearly showing the venomous spur. English zoologist George Shaw wrote in 1799 of a specimen sent to England, that it had an extraordinary "conformation", appearing to have the beak of a duck grafted on to the head of a quadruped.

Engraved by Edward or Harriet Griffith, and signed "Griffith" in the image. 5 1/4 x 8 1/4" on paper 5 7/8 x 9 1/4", full impression mark visible. Very good condition. Item #25929

Price: $145.00