About this sheet
Common Goldeneye Duck – Antique Bird Engraving by Nozeman and Sepp, 1809
This antique hand-colored copperplate engraving, titled ‘Anas Clangula’, depicts the common goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), a striking medium-sized sea duck recognized by its iridescent green head, bright golden eye, and crisp black-and-white plumage. Native to boreal forests and northern lakes, the species breeds across Scandinavia, Russia, and parts of northern Europe, and winters further south on sheltered coasts and inland waters. Known for its rapid wingbeats in flight and its distinct whistling sound, the goldeneye has long fascinated both naturalists and bird enthusiasts.
The engraving originates from Nederlandsche Vogelen; volgens hunne huishouding, aert en eigenschappen beschreeven (Amsterdam, 1770–1829), the first comprehensive ornithological study published in the Netherlands. Initiated by Cornelis Nozeman and continued by Martinus Houttuyn, the project was brought to life through the skilled engraving and hand-coloring of the Sepp family. Each bird was depicted in a lifelike manner, often close to life size, with attention to natural posture, environment, and characteristic details.
As one of the iconic plates from this monumental series, the depiction of the common goldeneye combines scientific precision with artistic refinement. The fine hand-coloring captures the subtle sheen of the male’s plumage, while the careful engraving preserves feather structure and form, making this both a valuable piece of ornithological history and a decorative collector’s item.
The accompanying Dutch text pages offer historical and scientific notes on the species, its behaviour, nesting, and characteristics as understood in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, with Dutch names "belduiker, bril-eend, kwaaker" noted.
Condition: Very good. Light age toning and faint margin spotting, typical of 18th-century laid paper. Plate mark clearly visible. Wide margins preserved with two small edge tears. Text page shows slight toning and a few scattered margin spots.
Framing tips: This print would display beautifully in a dark mahogany or walnut frame with a cream or pale grey mount, highlighting the contrast between the bird’s white breast and the shimmering dark head. A narrow gilt border could be added to bring out the elegance of the engraving.
