Birds · 19th century
€ 140
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition report: Margins lightly toned, scattered minor foxing spots, original hand-colouring remains vivid, slight edge wear, no major tears or damage. Study the images carefully.
1823 Hand-Coloured Engraving - Gaucho Hunting Ostrich with Bolas in the Pampas
This 1823 hand-coloured copperplate engraving by Theodore Goetz is from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" ("Picture Book for Children"). It depicts a Native American gaucho on horseback hunting an ostrich in the vast pampas of South America using bolas, also known as boleadoras. The scene captures the gaucho mid-chase, his body leaning forward, expertly guiding his galloping horse while whirling the bolas above his head, ready to hurl them at the running ostrich.
The landscape of the pampas stretches in the background, with rolling hills, flocks of birds, and hints of other animals typical of the region. The ostrich, or rhea, seen sprinting ahead of the gaucho, was a common target for hunting on the pampas, providing food and feathers. The gauchos, often referred to as the cowboys of South America, were skilled horsemen who played a crucial role in shaping the culture and economy of the region. This engraving vividly depicts their expertise in riding and hunting, emphasizing their adaptability and resourcefulness in the expansive South American plains.
Theodore Goetz's illustration, brought to life by the vibrant hand colouring, serves as a captivating depiction of the daily practices and traditions of the gauchos. It reflects not only their livelihood but also the dynamic relationship between these skilled horsemen and the land they lived on.
Friedrich Johann Bertuch’s "Bilderbuch für Kinder" was an educational encyclopedia published between 1790 and 1830, featuring nearly 1,200 engraved plates across twelve volumes. The collection aimed to provide children with a broad understanding of natural history, world cultures, mythology, and scientific advancements, using richly illustrated plates like this one to educate and inspire curiosity.
Condition report: Margins lightly toned, scattered minor foxing spots, original hand-colouring remains vivid, slight edge wear, no major tears or damage.
