About this sheet
Ruff Bird Print with Nest – Tringa Pugnax by Nozeman and Sepp, 1770
This antique hand-coloured copperplate engraving depicts the ruff (Tringa pugnax, now Calidris pugnax), a striking medium-sized wader shown in male and female plumage beside a nest with eggs. The male is easily recognised by its extravagant breeding plumage with ornate neck ruff, from which the species takes its name, while the female—traditionally called a reeve—is smaller and more plainly marked. The careful rendering of plumage detail, from the speckled breast to the rich patterning of the wings, captures the natural beauty of this marshland bird.
The ruff breeds in wetlands, marshes, and wet meadows across northern Eurasia, and is famed for its elaborate lekking displays, in which males gather to compete in spectacular courtship rituals. A highly migratory bird, it winters in southern and western Europe, Africa, southern Asia, and as far as Australia, often forming large flocks. Its Latin name pugnax, meaning “combative,” refers to the aggressive behaviour of males during these courtship gatherings.
This plate originates from Nederlandsche Vogelen; volgens hunne huishouding, aert, en eigenschappen beschreeven (Amsterdam, 1770–1829), the first great ornithological work published in the Netherlands. A monumental collaboration between Cornelis Nozeman, Martinus Houttuyn, and the Sepp family, the series aimed to depict and describe all bird species found in the Netherlands. Each bird was illustrated as it appeared in life, often close to life-size, making it an invaluable record of natural history and art.
Condition: Very good. Age-related toning with minor spotting, typical of 18th-century laid paper. Strong impression with wide margins and visible plate mark. Accompanied by the original descriptive text sheet.
Framing tips: A natural wood or walnut frame paired with a cream or moss-green mount will complement the earthy plumage tones, while a black frame with gilt edging would give the piece a more formal natural history presentation.
