Ernst Haeckel's Art Forms in Nature: A Visual Masterpiece of the Natural World

By Ernst Haeckel and Adolf Glitsch

First published in 1904, under the German title Kunstformen der Natur, this unique collection of plates holds a lasting influence in both the art and science worlds. Ernst Haeckel’s detailed illustrations serve as a visual encyclopaedia for his pioneering research and anatomical discoveries. Working in both pencil and watercolour paint, he preserved the complex forms, patterns, and structures of the organisms he discovered. Featuring intricate depictions of various land and sea life, this volume serves a scientific purpose while boasting exceptional aesthetic beauty.

As a proud addition to the Art Meets Science collection, Read & Co. Books has faithfully reproduced Haeckel’s innovative work. Taking care to conserve the original detail, shapes, and colours as they were printed on initial publication, this beautiful volume recaptures the magic of Art Forms in Nature for a new generation to enjoy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Art Meets Science
• Release date: Jun 1, 2023
• ISBN: 9781528798587

Ernst Haeckel

Ernst Haeckel (1834–1919) was a pioneering German scientist, credited with popularising Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution in Germany. He discovered and named thousands of new species in his lifetime, and coined many biological terms still in use today, such as ‘ecology’. His magnum opus, ‘Art Forms in Nature’ (1904), couples his analytical mind with his creative spirit.

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