Birds · 19th century
€ 570
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General age-related toning. Minor wear and foxing, blank verso. Please study image carefully.
This exquisite antique bird print, titled "La Collurie boréale", is a sought-after collectible for aficionados of avian illustration and historical ornithological works. Depicting the northern shrike (Lanius borealis), a notable species within the shrike family (Laniidae), this print is a celebration of the bird’s distinct presence in both North America and Siberia. Originating from the pioneering ornithological volume "Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux de l'Amerique Septentrionale" by the esteemed Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot, this piece dates back to approximately 1807.
The illustration showcases the northern shrike in meticulous detail, highlighting the artist’s commitment to representing the species with scientific accuracy and artistic finesse. The artwork is the creation of J.G. Pretre, with L. Bouquet providing the intricate engraving. The print's colors were initially laid by Langlois—a testament to the period's printmaking craftsmanship—before receiving final hand-finished touches, a common practice of the era to bring depth and vibrancy to the piece.
Collectors would appreciate knowing that Vieillot was revolutionary in his approach to ornithology, shifting the perspective from merely cataloging birds as specimens to observing them as dynamic entities within their ecosystems. His work contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of North American avifauna. The authenticity of this print is underscored by the attention to the bird's natural posture, the delicate rendering of its plumage, and the precision of its predatory beak—hallmarks of Vieillot's innovative observational method.
This antique bird print is not just a visual treasure but also a piece of scientific heritage, ideal for connoisseurs of ornithological history, enthusiasts of natural history, and those with a refined taste for early 19th-century illustrations. It is a rare find, perfect for enhancing a collection of naturalist art or serving as an elegant focal point in a curated space of antique prints and natural history artifacts.
