Coypu or river rat, Myocastor coypus, and Cayenne
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Coypu or river rat, Myocastor coypus, and Cayenne
Coypu or river rat, Myocastor coypus, and Cayenne spiny rat, Proechimys guyannensis.. Handcolored copperplate stipple engraving from Frederic Cuviers Dictionary of Natural Science: Mammals, Paris, France, 1816. Illustration by J. G. Pretre, engraved by Madame Massard, directed by Pierre Jean-Francois Turpin, and published by F.G. Levrault. Jean Gabriel Pretre (1780-1845) was painter of natural history at Empress Josephines zoo and later became artist to the Museum of Natural History
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Media ID 14214989
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
Cayenne Coypu Cuvier Dictionary Frederic Gabriel Pretre Spiny Stipple Coypus Myocastor
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite handcolored copperplate stipple engraving, titled "Myocastor Coypus et Proechimys Guyannensis," was created in 1816 as part of Frederic Cuvier's esteemed "Dictionary of Natural Science: Mammals." The illustration was produced under the artistic direction of Pierre Jean-Francois Turpin and masterfully executed by J.G. Pretre, who was a painter of natural history at Empress Josephine's zoo and later became an artist at the Museum of Natural History in Paris. The engraving showcases two distinct rodent species native to South America. On the left, the Coypu, or River Rat (Myocastor coypus), is depicted with its large, webbed hind feet and a prominent, flat, scaly tail, which helps it navigate through aquatic environments. The Coypu is a semi-aquatic rodent that builds complex burrow systems near water sources and feeds primarily on vegetation. On the right, the Cayenne Spiny Rat (Proechimys guyannensis) is presented with its spiny, erectile hairs covering its back. These hairs provide the rodent with protection against predators. The Cayenne Spiny Rat is a terrestrial species that inhabits forests and savannas and feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects. The intricate details of the engraving, combined with the vibrant handcoloring, beautifully capture the unique features of these fascinating rodent species. This historical artwork remains an essential contribution to the study and documentation of the natural world.
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