Water Birds Print: Swan, Pelican, Cormorant, Ducks – Antique 1867
This detailed antique print depicts a diverse range of water birds, including swans, pelicans, cormorants, ducks, gulls, and loons, rendered in fine 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. Created for educational use, this print provided 19th-century students and families with zoological knowledge of European and global aquatic bird species.
The labelled figures include:
1. Great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus) 2. Common loon (Gavia immer) 3. Razorbill (Alca torda) 4. Puffin (Fratercula arctica) 5. Great auk (Pinguinus impennis) 6. Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) 7. Indian cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis) 8. Great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) 9. Pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens) 10. Arctic tern (Sterna paradisaea) 11. Black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) 12. Herring gull (Larus argentatus) 13. Skua (Stercorarius species) 14. Lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus) 15. Little stint (Calidris minuta) 16. Mute swan (Cygnus olor) 17. Greylag goose (Anser anser) 18. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) 19. Common eider (Somateria mollissima) 20. Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)
Produced using copper engraving with meticulous hand colouring, this print combines fine anatomical lines with naturalistic watercolour washes to bring each bird to life. Birds are depicted in swimming, resting, or flying poses within stylised aquatic landscapes, blending scientific clarity with decorative appeal. Such plates were essential teaching aids in schools and libraries before photographic field guides became common.
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 clear.
Framing tips: Frame this water bird print in a dark wood, black, or walnut frame with a cream or off-white mount to enhance its engraved detail and subtle colouring. For a classic interior, a gold frame adds warmth and antique character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve colours and prevent further toning. This antique ornithological print will enrich any bird art collection or natural history interior, offering timeless beauty and educational significance to your wall.
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