Fashion & Costume
€ 240
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
The lithograph is in good condition, with deep blacks and well-preserved colors that maintain their original vibrancy. Some mild foxing is present along the edges, a natural occurrence in antique paper due to age.
The Elegant Black Bantams A Rare 19th Century Poultry Lithograph
This striking 19th-century chromolithograph, titled Zwarte Bantams, showcases a group of black bantam chickens in an elegant courtyard setting. Published in 1888 as part of Geïllustreerd Hoenderboek by Elsevier, this print belongs to a series of 40 richly detailed poultry illustrations created under the direction of Julius Volschau and adapted for Dutch readers by Dr. A. C. Oudemans Jzn. The book was an essential guide for poultry breeders, featuring both practical and ornamental breeds admired in European poultry farming.
Black Bantams, or zwarte bantams, are small, refined chickens known for their glossy black plumage, which shimmers with an iridescent green sheen in the sunlight. Their diminutive size, lively demeanor, and delicate features make them a favorite among poultry fanciers. Bantams are often kept for ornamental purposes rather than for meat or egg production, prized for their beauty and charming presence in both farmyards and gardens.
This lithograph presents a lively scene with a rooster standing confidently on the steps of a grand estate, overseeing his flock of small, active hens. The backdrop features a classical balustrade and a shaded veranda, suggesting that these birds were kept as ornamental poultry, possibly in a noble or aristocratic residence. Their presence in such refined surroundings reflects their popularity among elite poultry breeders during the 19th century.
The illustration was created using chromolithography, a meticulous color printing technique that involved layering multiple stone plates, each carrying a different hue, to produce rich and vibrant images. The fine detailing of the feathers, the soft gradation of shadows, and the realistic textures of the stonework and foliage demonstrate the skill of the lithographer, Christian Förster. This method allowed for a depth and brilliance of color that was rarely achieved in earlier printing processes.
Condition Summary
The lithograph is in good condition, with deep blacks and well-preserved colors that maintain their original vibrancy. Some mild foxing is present along the edges, a natural occurrence in antique paper due to age. The margins remain intact, making this print suitable for framing.
Framing Tips
To enhance and protect this antique lithograph, consider the following framing techniques
- Use acid-free matting in a complementary tone, such as ivory or light gray, to provide contrast against the rich black hues of the bantams
- A dark wood or black lacquered frame will accentuate the elegance of the birds while matching their glossy plumage
- Opt for museum-grade UV-protective glass to prevent fading and preserve the fine details of the print
- A classic gold inner trim within the frame can subtly highlight the print’s historical significance and add a refined touch
This lithograph is a remarkable piece of 19th-century poultry illustration, capturing the elegance and charm of black bantams in a setting that reflects their aristocratic appeal. Whether displayed in a collection of antique prints or as a standalone piece, it offers a glimpse into the refined world of historical poultry breeding.
