Birds
€ 670
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Edges sharp; no tears, no folds. Some handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality. Please study the images carefully.
This delightful hand-colored engraving, titled 'Kleine Ente mit Purpurfarbenem Kopf', features the Little Duck with a Purple Head (Anas minor purpureo capite), shown in profile with vibrant coloration that highlights its unique plumage.
Created by Johann Michael Seligmann, a prominent German natural history engraver and illustrator, this piece belongs to his *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), an influential series that brought exotic species to a European audience in the 18th century.
The plate, numbered "Tab. XC," presents the duck with a striking purple head and fine feather detail that reflects Seligmann’s artistic dedication to naturalistic accuracy. The Latin and French inscriptions, including *Petit Canard à la tête purpurine*, emphasize the print’s historical and scientific significance as part of a detailed study of foreign avian species. The background hints at a natural landscape, adding depth to this charming portrayal.
This print is ideal for collectors of historical ornithological art or enthusiasts of 18th-century wildlife illustrations. Seligmann’s engravings remain valued for their precision and artistry, making this duck illustration a captivating addition to any collection focused on vintage bird art.
