The Field Museum is a great community of scholars. Behind the exhibition areas that the public sees is a labyrinth of research and collection facilities. Scientists who are on the forefront of their fields are examining specimens gathered on their recent expeditions to the far reaches of the globe. Our collections represent unique and irreplaceable treasures assembled since our inception in 1893. One of my favorite behind the scenes places to take visitors is the Mary W. Runnells Rare Book Room in The Field Museum library. They are awestruck by the beauty and breadth of the natural history art collection, which is renowned as one of the most significant in the world.

"The Oppenheimer Field Museum Editions are making it possible for these heretofore- unattainable collections to enter the public sphere through these facsimile prints."

The museum library collects a royalty and directly benefits from the sale of every print and portfolio. I have enthusiastically supported this project from its inception and I am delighted to share these works with you.

John W. McCarter, Jr.

President and Chief Executive Officer