Background:

These hand-colored prints are from the Dictionnaire Universel d'Histoire Naturelle (Dictionary of Natural History) edited by the French naturalist Charles D'Orbigny (1802-1857).  Regarded as one of the best illustrated encyclopedias of natural history, the Dictionary is typical of the books of this period, featuring highly detailed and scientifically accurate illustrations to appeal to both the academic and general public.  Topics included mammals, birds, insects, fish, etc.