Hand-Colored Engraving of the Hooded Merganser by Johann Michael Seligmann, 1770
€ 580
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1770
Sheet size
37 × 25 cm (14.6 × 9.8 in)
Reference
BG-13972
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Some handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality.
About this sheet
This remarkable hand-colored engraving, titled Die Gehäubte Ente, features the Hooded Merganser (Anas christatus), celebrated for its distinctive crest. Part of Johann Michael Seligmann’s acclaimed Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), this piece is based on the work of notable naturalists, such as Mark Catesby, and showcases Seligmann’s ability to combine scientific precision with artistic elegance.
The plate, numbered "Tab. LXXXVIII," captures the Hooded Merganser in a striking side profile, highlighting its impressive black-and-white crest and intricate plumage detail. Set against a subtle natural backdrop, the bird is depicted resting on calm waters, adding depth and serenity to the composition. The French title, Canard huppe, reinforces the engraving's historical importance as a documentation of exotic bird species.
Perfect for collectors of antique ornithological prints or enthusiasts of 18th-century natural history art, this engraving exemplifies Seligmann’s dedication to beauty and accuracy. His works are highly prized for their scientific value and artistic charm, making this Hooded Merganser illustration a distinguished addition to any collection of vintage bird illustrations.
