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1854 Megalosaurus reconstruction & jaw 1854 Megalosaurus reconstruction & jaw
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1854 Megalosaurus reconstruction & jaw 1854 Megalosaurus reconstruction & jaw
1854 Megalosaurus model by Waterhouse Hawkins with superimposed image (pale brown) of the known lower jawbone used for the reconstruction. Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins attempted to scientifically reconstruct dinosaurs for the Crystal Palace 1852-1854. He was helped by Richard Owen, the man who named the group. At this time there were few remains, so the endeavor was speculative. This miniature model was made by Hawkins for sale in the UK by Tennant 1854 and in the US by Ward 1866. Megalosaurus was the first dinosaur described by Buckland in 1824. The only bone known in the front half of the animal was the partial lower jaw. Owen supposed the giant reptiles appearance was between a crocodile and a pachyderm. Though innacurate, the reconstruction fired the publics imagination. It would not be until the 20th century that Megalosaurus would appear as the bipedal predator we know today
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Media ID 6319433
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Buckland Crystal Palace Cuvier Dinosaur Discovery Fossil Mantell Megalosaurus Owen Reconstruction Restoration
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This print showcases the 1854 reconstruction of Megalosaurus, a dinosaur that was scientifically reconstructed by Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins for the Crystal Palace in 1852-1854. Assisted by Richard Owen, who named the group, Hawkins embarked on this ambitious project despite having limited remains to work with at the time. The miniature model seen here was created by Hawkins and made available for sale in both the UK and US. Megalosaurus, first described by Buckland in 1824, presented a unique challenge due to its scarce fossil record. With only a partial lower jawbone known from the front half of the animal, Owen speculated that its appearance would resemble something between a crocodile and a pachyderm. Although inaccurate by today's standards, this reconstruction ignited public imagination during an era when knowledge about dinosaurs was still speculative. It wasn't until much later in the 20th century that Megalosaurus would be depicted as we recognize it today - a bipedal predator. Nonetheless, this early attempt at restoration played an essential role in shaping our understanding of these ancient creatures. The photograph captures not just an artistic representation but also highlights key figures such as Cuvier and Mantell who contributed significantly to paleontological discoveries during their time. Situated within Sydenham Park's Crystal Palace grounds, where visitors could marvel at these reconstructions firsthand, this image serves as a testament to humanity's enduring fascination with prehistoric life.
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