Chinese Peacock-Pheasant – Hand-Colored Bird Engraving by Edwards & Seligmann, c.1750–1776
This fine hand-colored engraving depicts the Chinese Peacock-Pheasant (Phasianus alis et caudâ oculatis), an exotic species admired in Europe for its ornate plumage. The bird is shown perched gracefully on a flowering branch, its feathers marked with striking blue and green eye-like spots. Decorative peonies frame the composition, enhancing the print’s ornamental character.
The engraving bears multilingual titles: “Der chinesische Phasanenpfau” (German), “Le Paon-Phaisan de la Chine” (French), and the Latin classification Phasianus, alis et caudâ, oculatis. At the lower left, the note G. Edwards ad viv. delin. credits the original life drawing to George Edwards (1694–1773), the English ornithologist whose Natural History of Uncommon Birds introduced many exotic species to Europe. At the lower right, J.M. Seligmann sculp. et excud. identifies Johann Michael Seligmann (1720–1762), the Nuremberg engraver and publisher who re-engraved Edwards’ works for his monumental Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel, published between 1749 and 1776.
The plate number 29 and reference to III Theil (Part III) situate it within Seligmann’s edition. This trilingual presentation was intended for an international audience, spreading knowledge of exotic natural history throughout Enlightenment Europe.
Condition: Excellent impression with strong hand-coloring. Light age toning and faint spots in the margins, not affecting the image. Plate mark visible.
Framing tips: A gilt or dark wood frame with a cream or pale green mount will highlight the bird’s rich plumage. A double mat with a thin blue or burgundy inner line will bring out the colors of the tail and floral accents.
Technique: Copper engraving with hand coloring Maker: George Edwards (artist), Johann Michael Seligmann (engraver and publisher), Nuremberg, c.1750–1776
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