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Great sea serpent seen off the coast of Greenland in 1734
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Great sea serpent seen off the coast of Greenland in 1734
Great sea serpent seen off the coast of Greenland in 1734, Scoliophis atlanticus. From a description by Hans Egede. Steel engraving by W.H. Lizars after an illustration by James Stewart from Robert Hamiltons Amphibious Carnivora, part of Sir William Jardines Naturalists Library: Mammalia, Edinburgh, 1839
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Media ID 23183962
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Amphibious Atlanticus C18th Carnivora Creature Dragon Eyewitness Giant Greenland Hamilton Hans Lizars Monster Mythological Serpent Snake Stewart
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Great Sea Serpent Sighting Off the Coast of Greenland in 1734: An Eyewitness Account and Illustration This steel engraving depicts the purported sighting of a great sea serpent off the coast of Greenland in 1734. According to Hans Egede, a Danish-Norwegian missionary and explorer, he and his companions encountered this mythical creature during their voyage. Egede's description, which was published in 1734, detailed the massive size and serpentine shape of the beast, with a length estimated to be over 100 feet and a body resembling a giant snake. The illustration, created by James Stewart and engraved by W.H. Lizars, is part of Sir William Jardine's Naturalist's Library: Mammalia, published in Edinburgh in 1839. The work aimed to document various mammals, but this plate was dedicated to the depiction of the great sea serpent, which was then considered a legitimate natural phenomenon. Despite the widespread belief in sea serpents during the 18th and 19th centuries, modern science has debunked their existence. However, this engraving remains an intriguing reminder of the fascination and wonder that such mythical creatures held for people of the past. The image continues to captivate our imagination, transporting us to a time when the unknown depths of the ocean concealed the possibility of extraordinary discoveries. The meticulous details in the illustration, from the serpent's scaly skin to its undulating body, are a testament to the skill and artistry of the artists and engravers involved in its creation. The image has been passed down through history, inspiring countless stories, legends, and works of art. Today, it serves as a reminder of the enduring allure of the sea and the mysteries it continues to hide.
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