Hapalotis conditor [Building Hapalotis]

Book Description

[London: by the Author, 1845-1863]. Hand-coloured lithograph by John Gould and H.C.Richter. Wove paper. 15 x 22 3/16 inches. A fine image from John Gould's great folio work 'The Mammals of Australia'. A striking print image of what is now called the greater stick-nest rat (Leporillus conditor): discovered by the famous explorer, Charles Sturt, this beautful animal is now virtually extinct in the wild. A captive breeding programme has been in place since 1986 and a number have been re- introduced into their former range. They are named for the large communal nests they build, as shown in the backgound of the present image. Originally published in 13 parts between 1840 and 1863, Gould's work represents his only serious foray away from the world of birds and into that of mammals. The accuracy of the colouring and the beauty and accuracy of the plates mean that the work is still highly valued today. It represents one of the first concerted efforts to record the extraordinary fauna of Australia. Cf. Ferguson 10032; cf. Nissen ZBI 1661; cf. Sauer 14; cf. Wood p.365

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