Plate VII. Denis Diderot. Encyclopedie. Paris, 1751- 1772. $115.00

Denis Diderot (1713-1784) was a French philosopher and art critic of tremendous historical importance as a proponent of the Enlightenment movement. He is best known as the co-founder, editor and contributor to the famous encyclopedia Encyclopedie ou Dictionnaire raissonne des sciences, des arts et des métiers, par une Societe de Gens de lettres. It is a massive reference work of 17 volumes and 18,000 pages of text that attempted to describe and classify the arts, trades, sciences, history, ancient philosophy, mythology and genealogy in the pursuit of knowledge. At a time when the literate population was very small, there were an amazing 4,000 subscribers.

Designs on this plate are creatures of the sea, including fish, crabs, scorpions, frogs, lizards, mice, rats, suns, mythological subjects including sphinx, sirens, dragons, and symbols of the earth and the heavens, including globes, moons, stars, suns, comets, river, sea, and fountains.

15 2/8 x 10 ¼ inches, sheet.
Engraving.
Excellent condition.