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Sowerbys beaked whale, Mesoplodon bidens
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Sowerbys beaked whale, Mesoplodon bidens
Sowerbys beaked whale, Mesoplodon bidens (Physeter bidens, two-toothed cachalot). Handcoloured copperplate engraving by James Sowerby from The British Miscellany, or Coloured figures of new, rare, or little known animal subjects, London, 1804
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Media ID 23203626
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Beaked Figures Miscellany Physeter Rare Sowerby Subjects Vulnerable Whale Bidens Cachalot Mesoplodon Sowerbys
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcoloured copperplate engraving by James Sowerby, titled "Sowerbys Beaked Whale, Mesoplodon bidens (Physeter bidens, two-toothed Cachalot)," is an exquisite example of natural history illustration from the early 19th century. The image, published in "The British Miscellany, or Coloured Figures of New, Rare, or Little Known Animal Subjects," showcases the intricate details of this elusive marine mammal. The Sowerbys Beaked Whale, also known as the Two-toothed Cachalot or the Pygmy Sperm Whale, is a species of beaked whale that belongs to the family Mesoplodontidae. This whale is characterized by its long, slender body, narrow beak, and two prominent teeth in the lower jaw. The species is named after the naturalist Physeter, from the Greek word for squid, due to its diet primarily consisting of deep-sea squid. The engraving captures the whale's sleek and streamlined body, with its dark, smooth skin and distinctive beak. The intricate details of the teeth and the texture of the skin are beautifully rendered, highlighting the skill and artistry of the engraver. The background is kept simple, with a subtle gradient effect that adds depth and dimension to the image. The Sowerbys Beaked Whale is a vulnerable species, with populations declining due to human activities such as whaling and habitat destruction. This illustration serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures and their habitats. James Sowerby was a prominent English natural history illustrator, known for his meticulous attention to detail and his contributions to the field of zoological illustration. This engraving is a testament to his skill and dedication to documenting the natural world. The British Miscellany, published between 1803 and 1812, was a groundbreaking publication that showcased a wide range of new and little-known animal subjects, making it an invaluable resource for naturalists and collectors of the time.
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