Antique Lithograph of Red-billed Hill Partridge by Keulemans, Sumatra c.1887

About this sheet

Antique Lithograph of Red-billed Hill Partridge by Keulemans, Sumatra c.1880

This striking antique lithograph depicts the Red-billed Hill Partridge (Peloperdix rubripes Salv. or Peloperdix rubirostris Salvadori) from the zoological exploration of Midden-Sumatra (Central Sumatra) in the late 19th century. The plate is titled Midden-Sumatra IV.1 Aves Pl. III. and was drawn and lithographed by J.G. Keulemans, one of the most acclaimed bird illustrators of the 19th century, and printed by P.W\.M. Trap.

The illustration shows the partridge standing alert on the forest floor, with its distinctive rufous-brown plumage, finely patterned chest, red bill, and intense red eye captured in meticulous detail. Keulemans’ exceptional precision and subtle hand coloring bring out the natural beauty of this elusive Southeast Asian forest bird. The species was described by Tommaso Salvadori, an Italian zoologist who worked extensively on Indonesian ornithology.

These plates were part of the Dutch colonial scientific documentation of Indonesian biodiversity, combining ornithological accuracy with refined artistic composition. They are highly sought after by collectors of Southeast Asian natural history, antique bird prints, and works by Keulemans, whose illustrations remain some of the most celebrated in ornithology.

Condition report:
The print is in very good condition with bright original coloring. Minor age toning is present with a small margin crease right edge, not affecting the image. The paper remains strong with no tears or repairs.

Framing tips:
This lithograph will display beautifully in a dark wood or black frame with a gold inner edge to enhance the rich browns and reds. Pair with a cream or pale olive mat for an elegant and natural presentation ideal for libraries, studies, or natural history-themed gallery walls.