Reptiles I

Frederick McCoy

1885-1890

Reptiles I by Frederick McCoy, 1885-1890

Frederick McCoy treats us to a 19th-century anatomy lesson with this meticulous breakdown of a monitor lizard. Instead of just showing the animal, the artist dissects it visually, floating the forked tongue, razor-sharp claws, and intricate scale patterns around the main figure like a scientist's evidence board. Created before wildlife photography was common, these hand-colored plates were the only way people could see the vivid details of exotic creatures, blending scientific rigor with artistic flair.

Technique
hand-colored lithograph
Views: 8

Related Artworks