Lot 735

Description

Daniel Solander, (1778), in silver (37 mm) by Gustav Ljunberger (Sweden), reverse inscription relates to the dedication of the medal to Joseph Banks by Claud and Johan Alstroemer (BHM 252; Eimer 798). Toned, good extremely fine and very rare.

Ex Spink Australia Sale 26 (lot 1146) and Dr.J.Powell Collection.

Daniel Charles Solander (1736-82), botanist. Born in Sweden, Solander was a pupil of Linnaeus who recommended him to naturalists in England. In 1760 Solander came to England and obtained an appointment at the British Museum. In 1768 he accompanied Joseph Banks on Cook's voyage around the world. He also went with Banks to Iceland in 1772; in 1773 he was made Keeper of the natural history department in the British Museum. The flower behind the head of Solander on the reverse of the medal is a genus of 'Atropacea' named Solander by the younger Linnaeus.