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1757 Edwards British Orangutan
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1757 Edwards British Orangutan
" The satier, savage, wild man, pigmy, orang-autang, chimp-anzee & c. " Copper plate with contemporary hand colouring printed 1757 for " Gleanings of Natural History" London: Royal College of Physicians, 1758 by George Edwards (1694-1773). This depiction by " the father of ornithology" appears to be of an orangutan and shows an animal that was " preserved in the British Museum in London". Edwards set the specimen up in this pose to draw it " before its parts too were too much dried or fallen in". The picture is interesting for its early date and for the fact that it does not reference earlier images such as those of Gesner or Tulpius (1641). This figure was later copied by Linnaeuss student Hoppius and named Pygmaeus edwardii. Edwards did not know where the animal had come from and wrongly concluded he was drawing the same animal as Tysons Chimpanzee (1698). But see Loys Ameranthropoides
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Media ID 6345875
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
18th Century Chimp Chimpanzee Color Cryptozoology Engraving Exotic Orang Orang Utan Satyr Anthropoid George Edwards Gleanings Royal College Of Physicians Tyson
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This print from 1757 showcases George Edwards' depiction of a British Orangutan, also known as "The satier, savage, wild man, pigmy, orang-autang, chimp-anzee & c". The copper plate with contemporary hand coloring was printed for "Gleanings of Natural History" in London by the Royal College of Physicians in 1758. Edwards, often referred to as the "father of ornithology" skillfully captured this intriguing animal that was preserved in the British Museum. In an effort to accurately portray the specimen before its deterioration became too significant, Edwards carefully arranged it into a pose for his drawing. Notably, this image stands out due to its early date and lack of reference to earlier depictions by Gesner or Tulpius from 1641. Interestingly enough, Edwards mistakenly believed he was illustrating Tyson's Chimpanzee (1698) and named it Pygmaeus edwardii. However, further research has revealed that this figure is actually related to Loys Ameranthropoides. This enchanting engraving offers a glimpse into the world of cryptozoology during the 18th century. Its vibrant colors and detailed illustration make it a true work of art. This remarkable piece can be found at the Royal College of Physicians and serves as a testament to George Edwards' talent and contribution to natural history studies.
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