Dictionnaire Universel D'histoire Naturelle (Encyclopedia of Natural History of the World)

the work

The Dictionnaire Universel D'histoire Naturelle (Encyclopedia of Natural History) is one of the most representative encyclopedias on natural history of the 19th century , compiled by the French naturalist Charles-Désiré d'Orbigny (1806-1876) . The original edition, which was published in 1892 and is held by the museum, contains many beautiful vintage prints that depict a variety of natural objects, including animals, plants, and human anatomy, in detail and with a realistic look. These illustrations combine so much sophistication and artistry that they can be said to represent the pinnacle of 19th century art, and are highly regarded not only for their scientific value but also for their artistic value.

Charles-Désiré d'Orbigny Biography

• Born December 2, 1806 in Coulon, France.
• He worked as a naturalist, explorer and scientist.
• He explored South America and discovered and described many new species of plants and animals.
• He conducts research in a wide range of fields , including paleontology, geology, and anthropology .
• Professor at the Natural History Museum in Paris.
• He died in Paris on March 3, 1876 (aged 69).

Representative works

• Encyclopedia of Natural History (Dictionnaire Universel D'histoire Naturelle) (First edition 1839-1849, second edition 1861, 1892 edition)
• Voyage dans l'Amérique Méridionale (1835-1847)

Characteristics and influence of this book

The Encyclopedia of Natural History is one of the most representative encyclopedias of the 19th century , systematically compiling the vast amount of knowledge on natural history that d'Orbigny had collected over his lifetime . It covers all fields of natural science , including animals, plants, minerals, geology, paleontology, and anthropology, and its contents were based on the latest science of the time.

The illustrations in this book, with their detailed depictions and beautiful colors, accurately and artistically depict the appearance of natural objects. These illustrations are highly regarded not only as scientific materials but also as works of art.

The Encyclopedia of Natural History made a major contribution to the development of natural science in the 19th century. Its wealth of information and beautiful illustrations were loved by many scientists and amateur naturalists, and played an important role in deepening our understanding of the natural world.