Hand-Colored Engraving of the American Crested Bittern by Seligmann, ca.1770
€ 620
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1770
Sheet size
37 × 25 cm (14.6 × 9.8 in)
Reference
BG-13989
Condition
good. Vibrant colors, minimal fading. Paper shows light toning and minor foxing. Edges sharp; no tears, no folds. Some handling marks, mostly outside plate-mark, not affecting image quality. Please study the images carefully.
About this sheet
This beautiful hand-colored engraving, titled 'Die Amerikanische Rohrdommel mit den Federbusch', features the American Crested Bittern (Ardea stellaris cristata Americana), elegantly poised amidst foliage with a scenic landscape in the background.
Created by Johann Michael Seligmann, a masterful German engraver and natural history illustrator, this piece is part of his distinguished series *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds). Seligmann's engravings served to translate and elevate the works of pioneering naturalists like Mark Catesby for German collectors, blending scientific accuracy with artistic finesse.
This plate, numbered "Tab. LVIII," captures the bird’s unique crest and intricate feather details with exceptional precision. The surrounding plant, labeled as *Lobelia frutescens, Portulaceae*, adds a botanical element, reflecting Seligmann's attention to the natural habitats of his subjects. The engraving is marked with both Latin and French nomenclature, further emphasizing its historical and scientific significance.
Ideal for collectors of antique ornithological prints or admirers of 18th-century natural history illustrations, this piece is a testament to Seligmann’s legacy. His engravings remain highly prized for their detailed artistry and scientific importance, making this a valuable addition to any collection focused on avian art or natural history.
