Set of Three Antique Prints of Eagles and Falcons by Oskar von Riesenthal, 1894
Description: A powerful collection of three chromolithographs from Oskar von Riesenthal’s Die Raubvögel Deutschlands und des angrenzenden Mitteleuropas, published in Gera by S. B. Griesbach in 1894. This monumental ornithological series, first issued 1876–78, is one of the finest 19th-century works on European birds of prey, prized for its combination of scientific accuracy and dramatic artistry.
The set includes: – Taf. XXXVII: *Aquila chrysaetos* (Golden Eagle), an adult depicted with wings partly spread on a forest branch, capturing its commanding presence. – Taf. XXXV: *Aquila imperialis* (Imperial Eagle), an adult perched on a rocky crag in a mountainous landscape, symbolizing power and majesty. – Taf. XXXI: *Falco tinnunculus* (Common Kestrel), showing an adult male and female among the ruins of an old stone structure, highlighting sexual dimorphism in plumage.
The plates emphasize both the grandeur of the larger eagles and the agility of the kestrel, key representatives of Europe’s raptor population. Reference: Nissen IVB 782. OCLC 302340448. Cf. Harting 127.
Artists and Engravers: Julius Adolf Oskar von Riesenthal (1830–1898), German forester, ornithologist, hunter, and writer, after an anonymous artist. Riesenthal’s work combines precision field knowledge with artistic naturalism, producing some of the most highly regarded ornithological plates of the 19th century.
Condition: Very good examples with rich original coloring. Minor toning and faint age spots at the margins, not affecting the main image. Strong impressions with visible plate marks.
Framing tips: This trio makes a striking wall ensemble. For a museum-style display, mount in wide ivory mats with narrow gilt liners, paired with dark wood or ebonized frames. Displaying them in sequence enhances the contrast between the grandeur of eagles and the delicate dynamism of the kestrel.
Technique: Chromolithograph Maker: Oskar von Riesenthal, Gera, 1894
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