Birds · 19th century
€ 499
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General age-related toning, adding to its patina. Minor wear and foxing, blank verso. Please study image carefully.
This sumptuous and rare antique bird print, titled "Le Moucherolle altiloque," is a large, meticulously detailed illustration of the black-whiskered vireo (Vireo altiloquus). A treasure for collectors of fine avian art and enthusiasts of historical ornithology, the black-whiskered vireo is beautifully portrayed as a small yet significant passerine bird, recognized for its breeding grounds in southern Florida, USA, and throughout the verdant islands of the West Indies down to the coastal islets of Venezuela. Known for its migratory patterns, it is a bird of subtropical climates, wintering from the Greater Antilles to northern South America, and it has been noted as a rare vagrant even in Costa Rica.
The provenance of this print is exceptional, hailing from "Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux de l'Amerique Septentrionale," a groundbreaking work by Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot, published circa 1807. Vieillot's approach to ornithology was revolutionary; he viewed birds as vibrant parts of their ecosystems, not merely as collectible specimens. The illustration, brought to life by J.G. Pretre and engraved with delicate precision by L. Bouquet, was originally printed in colors by Langlois. True to the era's craftsmanship, it was finished by hand, adding a layer of authenticity and richness that is greatly prized.
As a piece of Vieillot's legacy, this print not only captures the black-whiskered vireo in its natural elegance but also serves as a historic document, a window into the evolution of ornithological study. It is a striking visual addition to any collection, perfect for those who value the confluence of art, science, and history in their antique selections. This print, with its blend of academic rigor and artistic beauty, would be a distinguished acquisition for collectors of Americana, natural history, and antique prints.
