Falcons and Owls – Set of Three Antique Bird Prints, 19th Century c.1894

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Set of Three Antique Prints of Falcons and Owls by Oskar von Riesenthal, 1894
A fine set of three chromolithographs from Oskar von Riesenthal’s Die Raubvögel Deutschlands und des angrenzenden Mitteleuropas, published Gera, S. B. Griesbach, 1894. This renowned series, first issued in 1876–78, is one of the most admired 19th-century works on European birds of prey, valued both for its scientific accuracy and its artistic beauty.

The set includes:
– Taf. LII: *Strix nisoria* (Northern Hawk Owl), perched against the trunk of a tree, watchful and alert, one of the rare owls illustrated in Riesenthal’s work.
– Taf. XVII: *Falco candicans* (Gyrfalcon, Icelandic form), a male shown in striking white plumage with speckling, poised on coastal rocks with a dramatic northern landscape.
– Taf. XXIV: *Falco peregrinus* (Peregrine Falcon), illustrating both an old female and a young male on rocky cliffs, capturing the differences in plumage across sex and age.

The trio contrasts the unique elegance of owls with the majesty of falcons, showcasing Riesenthal’s eye for both diversity and naturalistic accuracy. Reference: Nissen IVB 782. OCLC 302340448. Cf. Harting 127.

Artists and Engravers: Julius Adolf Oskar von Riesenthal (1830–1898), German forester, ornithologist, hunter, and writer, after an anonymous artist. His depictions remain a cornerstone of Central European ornithological illustration.

Condition: Very good examples with vivid coloring. Mild age toning to margins and occasional light spotting, not affecting the images. Clear plate marks visible.

Framing tips: These prints present well as a set. Double matting in soft ivory highlights the finely detailed feathers, while slim dark or gilt frames emphasize their classical 19th-century character. Hanging as a triptych creates an elegant visual balance.

Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Oskar von Riesenthal, Gera, 1894