Image Licensing : Geospiza Magnirostris K030082
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Geospiza Magnirostris K030082
DOWN HOUSE, Kent. Coloured engraving of two finches " Geospiza Magnirostris" from " The Zoology of the Voyage of HMS Beagle, Part III Birds". Plate XXXVI. Edited by Charles Darwin. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England
Media ID 1330721
Filename: K030082.jpg
Size: 3796 x 4786 (21.0MB)
Date: 29th October 2008
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Photo Library
Source: English Heritage Images
Bird Darwin Engraving Illustration
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving, titled "Geospiza Magnirostris," is an exquisite illustration of two finches from Plate XXXVI of "The Zoology of the Voyage of HMS Beagle, Part III Birds," edited by the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin. The image, now held in the Historic England Photo Library, was produced during the groundbreaking voyage of the HMS Beagle between 1831 and 1836. The Geospiza Magnirostris, also known as the Galapagos Large-beaked Finch, is a native bird species from the Galapagos Islands. This particular engraving showcases two individuals of this species, their vibrant plumage and distinctively large beaks on full display. The intricate details of their feathers and beaks are masterfully captured, providing a remarkable glimpse into the natural world of over 180 years ago. Charles Darwin's involvement in this illustration is significant, as his observations of the Galapagos finches and other island species played a crucial role in the development of his theory of evolution by natural selection. The finches' unique beak structures and distribution across the islands led Darwin to propose that they had evolved from a common ancestor, a concept that would forever change the way we understand the natural world. The engraving's historical significance is further emphasized by its connection to Down House in Kent, where Darwin lived and wrote much of his seminal work. The Zoology of the Voyage of HMS Beagle was published from Down House between 1838 and 1843, making this illustration a testament to the intellectual legacy of one of the most influential figures in the history of science.
