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1838 Megalosaurus and Iguanodon by Martin
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1838 Megalosaurus and Iguanodon by Martin
" The Country of the Iguanodon" by apocalyptic artist John Martin, commissioned by Gideon Mantell as the frontis for his popular book " The Wonders of Geology" (1838). Martin was visiting Mantells Museum and was inspired by Mantells discoveries - particularly by the " Mantell Piece" a slab of rock from Maidstone containing articulated bones of Iguanodon. This mezzotint (apparently from a painting by Martin presented to Mantell) was one of the first attempts at geological restoration of a pre-historic land environment, and shows an iguanodon being attacked by Megalosaurus. A crocodile is drawn to the fray, with the whole being watched by a pterodactyle. In the middle distance an Iguanodon and Hylaeosaurus prepare for another confrontation. The vegetation is as discovered by Mantell in the Tilgate forest beds. Mantell notes the reconstructions accuracy - but basically Martin drew dragons
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6346659
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
Iguanodon Jurassic Mezzotint Pterodactyle Restoration Richard Owen Hylaeosaurus John Martin Oolite
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This print showcases the iconic artwork "1838 Megalosaurus and Iguanodon" by John Martin, known as "The Country of the Iguanodon". Commissioned by Gideon Mantell for his renowned book "The Wonders of Geology" this mezzotint is a remarkable early attempt at reconstructing a prehistoric land environment. Inspired by Mantell's groundbreaking discoveries, particularly the famous "Mantell Piece" containing articulated bones of an Iguanodon found in Maidstone, Martin skillfully brings to life a dramatic scene. The illustration depicts an intense battle between an iguanodon and a menacing Megalosaurus while being observed by a watchful pterodactyl. Adding to the chaos, a crocodile lurks nearby. Intriguingly, another confrontation unfolds in the middle distance as an Iguanodon and Hylaeosaurus prepare for their own clash. The vegetation surrounding them faithfully reflects Mantell's findings in Tilgate forest beds. While Mantell praised the accuracy of this restoration, it is worth noting that Martin took some artistic liberties with his depiction—essentially drawing dragons rather than scientifically accurate representations. Nonetheless, this masterpiece remains significant for its contribution to early geological illustrations and its ability to transport viewers into a world long lost to time. Paul D. Stewart's photograph beautifully captures every intricate detail of this historic artwork from Science Photo Library—a testament to both artistry and scientific curiosity that continues to captivate audiences today.
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