Birds, beasts, butterflies, bats, snakes, shells, and coral—collecting and displaying natural specimens became popular with collectors in 17th-century Europe when developments in travel, commerce, and scientific discovery aroused interest in nature. Albertus Seba’s Cabinet of Natural Curiosities is one of the 18th century’s greatest natural history achievements and remains one of the most prized natural history books of all time. Though it was common for men of his profession to collect natural specimens for research purposes, Amsterdam-based pharmacist Albertus Seba (1665–1736) had a passion that led him far beyond the call of duty. His amazing, unprecedented collection of animals, plants, and insects from all around the world gained international fame during his lifetime. In 1731, after decades of collecting, Seba commissioned illustrations of each and every specimen and arranged the publication of a four-volume catalog detailing his entire collection—from strange and exotic plants to snakes, frogs, crocodiles, shellfish, corals, insects, butterflies and more, as well as fantastic beasts, such as a hydra and a dragon. Published by Taschen, this tri-lingual facsimile volume introduces science buffs and aesthetes alike to the peculiar creatures and exotic flora of Seba's world. In English, French, and German.

544 pages, over 500 color illustrations, 10 1/4 in. x 15 3/8 in. Hardcover; clothbound, with slipcase.

Original price $59.95

Cabinet of Natural Curiosities: The Complete Plates in Color
03-018207
Member Price: $26.95 each
Non-Member Price: $29.95 each


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