Antique Print of the White-Eared Cat Bird, Tooth-Billed Cat Bird and Other, 1950

Reference
BG-09687
Date
1950
Category
Natural History Print
Sheet size
27.0 x 20.5 cm (10.6 x 8.1 in)
Condition
Good
Availability
Available
Price
EUR 60

This decorative artwork serves as a visual showcase of avian splendor, featuring four distinct bird species known for their unique traits and habitats. The illustration is a genuine piece originating from the notable work 'Birds of Paradise and Bower Birds' authored by Tom Iredale, with the vibrant chromatic depictions crafted by the hand of Lilian Medland. This publication, released in 1950, is renowned for its detailed and colorful portrayals of every species within these two bird families.

The White-Eared Cat Bird is typically characterized by its notable white patches around the ear coverts, which contrast strikingly with the rest of its plumage. The Tooth-Billed Cat Bird, often distinguished by its 'toothed' bill edges, displays a blend of subtle hues in its feathers. The Yellow-Fronted Gardener Bird, named for its bright yellow frontal plumage and its intricate bower-building behavior, is depicted with meticulous attention to the gradations of color and texture. Lastly, Rawnsley's Bowerbird, with its lustrous satiny sheen, completes this quartet, demonstrating the diverse beauty these species contribute to the avifauna.

Each bird is rendered with precise attention to their physical attributes, from feather patterns and coloration to their postures and expressions, capturing the essence of their living counterparts. This print is not only a feast for the eyes but also a valuable historical document, reflecting the scientific knowledge and artistic sensibilities of the mid-20th century. It is a testament to the enduring allure of these exotic creatures and their importance in the natural world, encapsulated through the medium of fine illustration.

Where this sits in the catalogue


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