Game Birds & Flightless Birds Print: Peacock, Ostrich, Cassowary – Antique 1867
This striking antique print depicts various game birds and flightless birds, including peacocks, ostriches, cassowaries, pheasants, and turkeys, rendered in detailed hand-coloured engravings. It originates from the Atlas der Natuurlijke Geschiedenis voor scholen en huisgezinnen, adapted into Dutch by T.C. Winkler after Traugott Bromme, and published in Amsterdam by J.C. Loman in 1867. Designed as an educational illustration, it showcases avian diversity from multiple continents for 19th-century students and readers.
The labelled figures include:
1. Nicobar pigeon (Caloenas nicobarica) 2. Turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) 3. Grey junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii) 4. Partridge (Perdix perdix) 5. Quail (Coturnix coturnix) 6. Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) 7. Red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) 8. Common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) 9. Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) 10. Argus pheasant (Argusianus argus) 11. Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) 12. Ostrich (Struthio camelus) 13. Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) 14. Cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) 15. Great argus pheasant (Argusianus argus)
The print was produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, highlighting each bird’s plumage, body structure, and posture. Birds are depicted standing proudly or walking within stylised natural landscapes, combining scientific precision with decorative beauty. These plates were essential teaching aids in schools and libraries, bringing the wonders of zoology into educational environments before photographic field guides existed.
Condition summary: Good condition for its age, with light overall toning and minor scattered foxing mainly in the margins. The paper is strong with no tears or repairs, and the hand colouring remains vivid and well-preserved.
Framing tips: Frame this print in a dark wood, walnut, or black frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its detailed colouring and engraving clarity. For traditional interiors, a gold frame adds antique warmth and elegance. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the colours and prevent further toning. This antique ornithological print will enrich any bird art collection, dining room, or educational interior with timeless beauty and zoological significance.
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