Seba, a wealthy Dutch apothecary and member of the Dutch East India Company, was one of the prototypical collectors of natural curiosities and exotic species. His collection ranged from the beautiful to the odd and bizarre. It included birds, reptiles such as lizards and snakes, butterflies and other insects, shells and exotic sea life, unusual mammals such as bats and anteaters, as well as exotic plants. The collection also included some fakes, intended to attract attention and interest, such as a seven-headed hydra.

A group of 4 double-page copper engraved plates, with fine later hand-colouring, sheet size: 53 cm x 74.4 cm. Framed and glazed, overall size: 58.5 cm x 80 cm x 3 cm.