Views of America
€ 660
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Edges sharp; no tears, no folds. Slight handling marks, mostly outside platmark, not affecting image quality.
This captivating hand-colored engraving, titled *Amerikanische Rohrdommel*, showcases the American Bittern (Ardea stellaris Americana), a species native to the wetlands of North America. Created by Johann Michael Seligmann, a distinguished German natural history illustrator and engraver, this artwork is part of his esteemed *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel*, or *Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds*. This series was designed to make the exotic wildlife documented by naturalists like Mark Catesby accessible to European audiences, with Seligmann expertly adapting and enhancing their illustrations.
The image highlights the American Bittern standing elegantly on a small patch of land, with fine detailing in the plumage and landscape that reflects Seligmann's dedication to both scientific accuracy and aesthetic beauty. The piece includes both Latin and French inscriptions, as well as the plate number "Tab. LVI," indicating its sequence in the ornithological collection. This beautiful print is ideal for collectors of historical natural history illustrations or enthusiasts of 18th-century wildlife art. Seligmann's work remains highly valued for its artistic and scientific merit, making this a superb addition to any collection of natural history or vintage bird engravings.
