The Evolution of Paleontological Art
Fossils have stirred the imagination globally for thousands of years, starting well before they were recognized as the remains of once-living organisms and proxies of former worlds. This volume samples the history of art about fossils and the visual conceptualization of their significance starting with biblical and mythological depictions, extending to renditions of ancient life as it flourished in long-vanished habitats, and on to a modern understanding that fossil art conveys lessons for the betterment of the human condition. The 29 papers and accompanying artwork illustrate how art about fossils has come to be a significant teaching tool not only about evolution of past life, but also about conservation of our planet for the benefit of future generations.
A quest for perfection in science and art: The paleontological legacy of Manfred Reichel (1896–1984)
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Published:February 24, 2022
ABSTRACT
Professor of paleontology at the University of Basel, Switzerland, Manfred Reichel was as much an accomplished scientist as a talented artist. Skilled in mental 3-D-visualization, aided by a sharp memory, and with a fine hand for illustration, he introduced comparative anatomy to the study of foraminifera, which is masterly illustrated in his analysis of Alveolinids, and used his knowledge of locomotion in modern birds as an actualistic method for portraying flying reptiles. Teaching was his motivation, and to aid his classes, beyond multiple drawings, he created a large number of scaled structural models of foraminifera and a life-size wooden replica of the Pteranodon with mobile articulations. Manfred Reichel was a perfectionist who left a large part of his studies and drawings unpublished.