18th century coral engraving on vellum

18th century natural history engraving depicting a Botryllus schlosseri, commonly known as a star ascidian or golden star tunicate, originally drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder for George Shaw's The Naturalist's Miscellany in 1805. 

Vellum has a longer shelf life than paper (up to 5000 years) and was used for important documents, but was typically more costly to use. The Naturalist's Miscellany was a monumental 24-volume work, known for its wide range of birds, reptiles, insects, quadrupeds, sea life, and botanicals. Highly sought after by collectors for their extremely decorative and whimsical nature. George Shaw authored the work, providing details for the over 1000 species described therein.

Set on hand marbled French paper, paired with a vintage bamboo frame. Professionally framed, wire hang. 

Wear/foxing to engraving expected with age, vintage bamboo frame has wear as shown.

Frame measures 9x12".