Birds
€ 290
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Overall very good to excellent condition with minor foxing and slight edge discoloration consistent with age. The colors remain vivid and the image is crisp and well-preserved, ensuring its continued beauty for years to come.
This striking lithograph from the 1880s beautifully captures the regal elegance of a white hawk perched on a pine branch, an iconic symbol in Japanese art that denotes strength and nobility. Published by Sampson Low & Co. and printed in Paris by the distinguished Imp. Lemercier & Cie, this artwork was directed by G. A. Audsley, a noted British architect and artist with a keen appreciation for Japanese culture and aesthetics.
The composition is meticulously crafted, featuring a white hawk rendered with lifelike detail, poised on a richly ornamented wooden perch tied with vibrant red cords. The background is a deep, sumptuous blue, against which the white plumage of the hawk stands out with dramatic contrast. Golden pine branches gracefully weave through the scene, adding a sense of movement and depth that enhances the overall visual harmony. The intricate red and gold border, adorned with traditional Japanese motifs, frames the artwork and reinforces its opulent feel.
This lithograph is part of a celebrated portfolio that showcased the refined beauty of Japanese decorative arts to Western audiences during the height of the Japonisme movement. Its bold colors and detailed patterning reflect both Audsley’s mastery of design and the powerful cross-cultural influences that shaped 19th-century art. This piece is an ideal acquisition for collectors of Japanese art, enthusiasts of Meiji-era design, or anyone who values the historic fusion of Eastern and Western artistry.
Condition report:
Overall very good to excellent condition with minor foxing and slight edge discoloration consistent with age. The colors remain vivid and the image is crisp and well-preserved, ensuring its continued beauty for years to come.
Framing tips:
To highlight the luxurious colors and exquisite details, frame this piece in a warm gold or deep red frame with a neutral matting in cream or off-white. This approach will accentuate the rich palette and ornate border, making the lithograph a truly captivating focal point in any room.
