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1607 Tiger by Topsell

1607 Tiger by Topsell


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1607 Tiger by Topsell

" Of the Tiger" a 1607 engraving with later tinting from Edward Topsells " History of four Footed Beasts". Topsell produced one of the first printed English Bestiaries, containing reports from other authors such as Pliny, Albertus and particularly Gessner (1551). He writes of the Tiger, " It hath been falsely believed that all tigers be females" and that they " conceiveth with young by the West wind". Though he scorns the credulity of such authors, he goes on to say " The Indians say that a Tiger is bigger than the greatest horse" and a Tiger has been seen to " fly upon the head of an elephant and devour it". More poignantly he reports, " The indians say the Tiger can never be conquered, because when he is hunted he runneth away out of sight"

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Media ID 6317397

© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

17th Century Bestiary Carnivore Colour Conservation Early Extinction Folk Lore Gesner Gessner India Indian Myth Mythology Natural History Pliny Predator Renaissance Tiger Topsell Wood Cut


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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the 17th century, where we delve into the world of Edward Topsell's "History of Four Footed Beasts". The image showcases a beautifully engraved and later tinted illustration titled "1607 Tiger by Topsell". Topsell, one of the pioneers in printed English Bestiaries, drew inspiration from renowned authors like Pliny, Albertus Magnus, and Gessner. In his writings about tigers, he challenges popular beliefs of that time. Dismissing notions that all tigers were females or conceived through the West wind, Topsell presents a more realistic account. The Indian folklore surrounding these majestic creatures is also highlighted. According to indigenous beliefs shared with Topsell, tigers were larger than even the mightiest horses. Astonishingly, there are accounts of tigers leaping onto elephants' heads and devouring them. However fearsome they may be portrayed as predators in this engraving-turned-artwork, it is interesting to note that Tigers were said to possess an uncanny ability to elude hunters by disappearing out of sight. As we gaze upon this historic piece capturing both myth and reality within its intricate woodcut design and vibrant colors added later on; we are reminded not only of our fascination with these magnificent creatures but also their significance in early zoology and conservation efforts. This artwork serves as a testament to humanity's enduring curiosity about nature's wonders throughout centuries past.

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