A striking original antique snake engraving from George Shaw’s celebrated The Naturalist’s Miscellany; or, Coloured Figures of Natural Objects Drawn and Described Immediately from Nature, published in London by Nodder & Co.

Plate 535 was published in February 1802, Volume XIII, Issue CL. The engraving is associated with Richard Polydore Nodder (1774–1823) and bears the RPN initials visible at lower right.

Shaw’s historic Boa antarctica is today associated with the common death adder (Acanthophis antarcticus).

Beautifully hand colored in rich ochre, russet, brown and black, with exceptionally detailed scale work and the distinctive coiled composition of the original plate.

This example has been given an unusually elaborate presentation, with multiple hand-ruled mat borders, gilt detailing, and a handsome burled-wood frame.

Artist/engraver: Richard Polydore Nodder

Author: George Shaw

Work: The Naturalist’s Miscellany

Title: The Antarctic Boa

Original scientific name: Boa antarctica

Plate: 535

Volume: XIII

Publication: London, Nodder & Co.

Date: February 1802