Numida Meleagris – Antique Helmeted Guineafowl Print by Nozeman & Sepp, 1829
This finely hand-coloured engraving shows the helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris), known in Dutch as the “helmparelhoen.” Native to sub-Saharan Africa, this striking bird has been widely introduced to Europe, the West Indies, Brazil, and Australia due to its adaptability, distinctive appearance, and value as both a domestic and game bird. Its unique spotted plumage and bony casque on the head are captured with remarkable detail, the artist rendering the bird’s speckled feathers, red wattles, and proud stance with scientific precision and aesthetic charm.
The plate originates from Nederlandsche Vogelen; volgens hunne huisdouding, aert, en eigenschappen beschreeven (Amsterdam, 1770–1829), the first comprehensive study of Dutch birds. This monumental work, by Cornelis Nozeman, Martinus Houttuyn, and Jan Christiaan Sepp, is celebrated for its combination of accurate ornithological observation and exceptional hand-coloured engravings. The illustrations were printed on high-quality laid paper, then carefully coloured by hand to achieve lifelike tones and textures.
The guineafowl was included in the series not only for its exotic origins but also because it had become established in Europe. The accompanying original text page provides period insight into its habits, diet, and role in domestic and ornamental aviaries of the time.
Collectors and decorators alike value Nederlandsche Vogelen plates for their historical importance, scientific interest, and decorative qualities, making this a desirable example for display or collection. The accompanying original Dutch text pages provide rich historical and scientific observations on the species, its behaviour, nesting habits, and physical characteristics, as understood in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Condition: Excelling. Clean paper with minimal age-related toning. Strong impression with visible plate mark. Original text page included. Text page with minimal age-related toning.
Framing tips: A soft cream or light ivory mount will bring out the spotted plumage, while a dark wood or ebonised frame can add a classic natural history look. For a more formal setting, consider a gilded frame with a narrow black liner. UV-protective glazing is recommended to preserve the delicate hand-colouring.
Overall size: 37 x 53 cm. Image size: 0.001 x 27.5 x 40 cm.
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.