Birds · 20th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General age-related toning. Blank verso. Please study image carefully.
An original vintage ornithological print titled 'Oidemia Nigra', representing a juvenile Black Scoter, a species of sea duck. The illustration captures the subtle coloration and textural details of the duck's plumage with careful attention to the gradations and patterns, which are characteristic of this age and species. The bird is depicted in a restful pose, allowing the viewer to appreciate its unique features, including the distinctively shaped bill.
The print is a work from "Svenska Foglar Efter Naturen Och Pa Stenritade," a series by Magnus von Wright. Von Wright was an esteemed Swedish-Finnish artist, born on June 13, 1805, and died on July 5, 1868. He was a pioneering figure in Nordic art, particularly known for his detailed and lifelike bird illustrations, which have served as significant scientific documents as well as works of art.
Educated in the arts in Stockholm, von Wright's reputation was established through his meticulous approach to illustrating the natural world, combining scientific accuracy with aesthetic sensitivity. His body of work includes not only avian subjects but also evocative landscapes of the Scandinavian environment, reflecting his deep appreciation for nature.
Von Wright's illustrations are especially revered for their contribution to the study of birds in Sweden and Finland, making "Svenska Foglar" a seminal work in ornithology. Collectors and enthusiasts still seek out his prints for their historical value, the quality of craftsmanship, and their enduring beauty. This print of the Black Scoter is an excellent example of von Wright's ability to render the natural world with authenticity and artistic elegance.
