About this sheet
White-Tailed Eagle – Falco Leucocephalus Hornotinus – Antique Bird Print, c.1829
A striking hand-coloured engraving of the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), here titled in the original Latin as Falco Leucocephalus hornotinus. This majestic raptor is one of the largest birds of prey in Eurasia, belonging to the family Accipitridae, which also includes hawks, kites, and harriers. The print presents the eagle in a powerful upright pose on a branch, its piercing gaze, hooked beak, and strong talons rendered with remarkable attention to detail. The artist captures the rich brown plumage, paler head and neck, and distinctive yellow beak and legs, conveying both the bird’s imposing stature and its predatory grace.
This engraving originates from Nederlandsche Vogelen; volgens hunne huisdouding, aert, en eigenschappen beschreeven, published in Amsterdam between 1770 and 1829 by Cornelius Nozeman, Martinus Houttuyn, and Jan Christiaan Sepp. As the first comprehensive ornithological work in the Netherlands, it is renowned for its scientific accuracy and the high artistic quality of its plates. The species are depicted in life-like settings, often close to actual size, reflecting the naturalistic ideals of the Enlightenment era. The white-tailed eagle, with its wide distribution across coasts, rivers, and large lakes, was an important species to document due to its ecological role and symbolic significance.
Collectors value Nederlandsche Vogelen plates not only for their beauty but also for their place in ornithological history. This print, with its finely detailed engraving and delicate original hand colouring, embodies the elegance and precision that define the series. It would make a fine addition to a collection of antique natural history prints or serve as an impressive display piece in a library, study, or nature-inspired interior.
The accompanying original Dutch text pages provide rich historical and scientific observations on the species, its behaviour, nesting habits, and physical characteristics, as understood in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Condition: Very good. Strong paper, clean impression, and vivid original hand colouring. Print and text pages have light toning and minimal handling marks, not affecting the image or text. Plate mark visible and text pages have one tiny hole in margins.
Framing tips: Best presented in a natural wood or dark walnut frame with a warm white or cream mount to complement the earthy tones of the plumage. A gold slip could be added to highlight the eagle’s regal associations.
