Old Handcolored Ornithological Print of the 'Chouette calong' (Calong Owl), 1838
€ 440
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1838
Sheet size
35 × 26 cm (13.8 × 10.2 in)
Reference
BG-13750-4
Condition
very good, given age. Some light soiling. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
About this sheet
This print is a 19th-century ornithological illustration depicting an owl labeled "Chouette calong." The bird is shown perched on a log, with intricate and detailed plumage rendered in a range of earthy tones including brown, yellow, and hints of red. The owl's feathers are meticulously detailed, highlighting the patterns and textures typical of the species. The bird's large, round eyes are prominently featured, capturing the viewer's attention and emphasizing its characteristic appearance.
The print was created by Nicolas Huet and Jean Gabriel Prêtre, two notable artists of their time.
**Nicolas Huet (1770–1830)**: - A prominent French natural history illustrator. - Known for his detailed and accurate depictions of animals, particularly birds. - Worked extensively on various ornithological publications, contributing to the field of natural history with his precise and artistic illustrations.
**Jean Gabriel Prêtre (1768–1849)**: - A Swiss-born natural history painter who worked in France. - Recognized for his contributions to zoological and botanical illustrations. - Collaborated with notable scientists and contributed to several important natural history publications.
Both artists were part of the significant movement during the 19th century that aimed to document and illustrate the natural world with scientific accuracy and artistic beauty. Their works are highly valued for their meticulous detail and contribution to ornithology and natural history. This print, part of the "Nouveau recueil de planches coloriées d'oiseaux" published in 1838, is an excellent example of their collaborative work and the era's dedication to combining science and art.