Liggende zeehond 1700 - 1800

This engraving by O. de Vries from the 18th century depicts a seal (or "phoque" as it is labeled in French) resting on a rocky shore. The detailed illustration shows the seal's smooth, rounded form and its distinctive flippers. The rocky landscape and the crashing waves in the foreground create a dramatic backdrop for the animal. The print, likely intended for scientific or educational purposes, demonstrates the skill of the artist in capturing the natural world through meticulous detail. The title "Liggende zeehond" is Dutch for "Lying Seal," highlighting the subject of this intriguing artwork.