Other Prints · 20th century
€ 170
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good, considering its age. No visible signs of significant fading. The details are crisp and clear and no signs of foxing (brown spots).
This print, another exquisite piece from the "Svenska Fåglar Efter Naturen Och På Sten Ritade" collection, features the Northern Shoveler, scientifically named Spatula clypeata. The drake is instantly recognizable by its oversized bill, which it uses to sift food from the water, and is portrayed here in a side profile that showcases its unique morphology and vibrant plumage.
The artist has skillfully captured the varied feather patterns with a high degree of realism, from the iridescent green head and the white chest to the rich, chestnut-colored sides and the striking blue forewing. The meticulous attention to detail in the illustration extends to the bird's large, spatula-like bill, rendered in a dark hue with subtle highlights that suggest its slightly concave shape.
Standing on a wooden plank amidst tufts of grass, the shoveler's pose is natural and relaxed, yet there's an alertness in its eye that animates the entire scene. The feet, painted in a bright orange, are webbed and sprawled, hinting at the bird's aquatic lifestyle.
The background is intentionally understated, providing a neutral space that allows the observer to focus on the fine details of the shoveler's plumage and form. As with the other prints in the series, the condition of the artwork appears to be excellent, with the colors remaining vivid and the paper well-preserved, suggesting that it has been carefully maintained over the years. This piece is a testament not only to the beauty of the Northern Shoveler but also to the artistry and scientific observation that went into its creation.
This is an original and NOT a reproduction!
