The Young Bald Eagle – Antique Dutch Ornithological Engraving, 1770s

About this sheet

Falco Leucocephalus Hornotinus – The Young Bald Eagle, by Sepp & Nozeman, 1770s

This magnificent hand-colored engraving of Falco Leucocephalus Hornotinus (the young Bald Eagle) was created by Jan Christiaan Sepp and Cornelius Nozeman for their landmark natural history work Nederlandsche Vogelen (Birds of the Netherlands), published in Amsterdam between 1770 and 1829. It remains one of the most celebrated ornithological publications of the 18th century, admired for its scientific precision and superb artistry.

The plate presents a youthful Bald Eagle perched regally on a gnarled branch, its sharp talons and powerful beak rendered with exquisite detail. The subtle gradation of browns, creams, and golden tones in the plumage reflects the extraordinary craftsmanship of Sepp’s workshop, which combined copperplate engraving with meticulous hand-coloring. Each plate from Nederlandsche Vogelen was engraved, printed, and colored by hand under the direction of the Sepp family, making every example a work of art in its own right.

Though the Bald Eagle is most famously associated with North America, its depiction in this Dutch series illustrates the encyclopedic scope and ambition of Nozeman’s project—to document and illustrate all bird species known to occur in the Netherlands and adjacent regions. The inclusion of foreign or migratory species demonstrates the 18th-century fascination with global natural history and exploration.

Collectors value this print for both its beauty and its importance in the history of ornithological illustration. The combination of scientific accuracy and aesthetic refinement reflects the Enlightenment ideal of merging art and knowledge.

Framing tips: Ideally presented in a gold or dark walnut frame with an ivory mat to enhance the natural hues of the plumage and the fine engraving lines.