{"product_id":"harrier-of-bengal-fig-41","title":"Harrier of Bengal, Fig. 41","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis antique hand-coloured engraving depicts the \u003cstrong\u003e‘Harrier of Bengal, Fig. 41’\u003c\/strong\u003e, as recorded in the natural history writings of \u003cstrong\u003eGeorges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon (1707–1788)\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the leading French naturalists of the 18th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuffon was among the most influential natural historians of his time, known for his detailed observations of the natural world and his attempts to document animals and plants systematically. His most celebrated work, \u003cem\u003eHistoire naturelle, générale et particulière\u003c\/em\u003e, was first published in 1749 and brought together extensive descriptions and illustrations of the animals known to Europeans at the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis writings on dogs are particularly interesting. As the modern concept of distinct dog breeds had not yet been firmly established, Buffon compared dogs according to their form, coat, colouring and other characteristics, documenting the considerable variety he observed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dog depicted here is recorded as the \u003cstrong\u003e‘Harrier of Bengal, Fig. 41’\u003c\/strong\u003e. The name is one of the historical terms associated with what we now recognise as the \u003cstrong\u003eDalmatian\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose distinctive spotted coat is clearly represented in the illustration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, Buffon did not accept the name at face value. He did not believe that the dog had actually originated in Bengal or India, noting instead that its principal difference from the common harrier was its colouring and markings. He also observed that dogs of this kind had already been known in Italy for a considerable period of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe engraving therefore offers more than a charming depiction of an early dog type. It provides an insight into how 18th-century naturalists observed and classified dogs, and how the distinctive appearance of the dog we now associate with the Dalmatian was recorded in early natural history literature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelicately engraved and finished by hand with colour, the print retains the fine detail and subtle tones characteristic of historic natural history plates. It is presented in its existing frame with a mounted surround, ready to hang and display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA thoughtful piece for those with an interest in natural history and the history of dog breeds, as well as for a study, library or living space where an antique print with a story of its own can be appreciated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e・・・\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e𓉞 \u003cstrong\u003eT.C.C Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAs an antique paper piece, this engraving carries the natural signs of age expected from an old print, including paper toning, minor marks and other subtle imperfections. These are considered part of its history and character. Please refer to the detailed photographs for the overall condition and individual signs of age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print is sold as presented in its existing frame and mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrame Size\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eW 13.7cm x H 12.9cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e19th century\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFraming\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExisting frame with mount\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e・・・\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWe hope this piece will find a new home where its history can be appreciated and its story carried forward.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"T.C.C","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59894984081792,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1009\/5804\/4544\/files\/MJXX2297copy.jpg?v=1789483137","url":"https:\/\/thecuriocabinet.co.uk\/products\/harrier-of-bengal-fig-41","provider":"T.C.C","version":"1.0","type":"link"}