Water Birds Print: Swan, Pelican, Cormorant, Ducks – Antique 1867
€ 180
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1867
Sheet size
28.5 × 22 cm (11.2 × 8.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-12980-15
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Good condition for its age, with light overall toning and minor scattered foxing, mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand coloring remains vivid and clear.
About this sheet
Water Birds Print: Swan, Pelican, Cormorant, Ducks – Antique 1867
This detailed antique print depicts a diverse range of water birds, including swans, pelicans, cormorants, ducks, gulls, and loons, rendered in fine hand-colored engravings. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, and published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Created for educational use, this print provided 19th-century students and families with zoological knowledge of European and global aquatic bird species.
The labeled figures include:
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand coloring, this print combines fine anatomical lines with naturalistic watercolor washes to bring each bird to life. Birds are depicted in swimming, resting, or flying poses within stylised aquatic landscapes, blending scientific clarity with decorative appeal. Such plates were essential teaching aids in schools and libraries before photographic field guides became common.
Condition summary: Good condition for its age, with light overall toning and minor scattered foxing, mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand coloring remains vivid and clear.
Framing tips: Frame this water bird print in a dark wood, black, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its engraved detail and subtle coloring. For a classic interior, a gold frame adds warmth and antique character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colors and prevent further toning. This antique ornithological print will enrich any bird art collection or natural history interior, offering timeless beauty and educational significance to your wall.
