The Sleek Black Hamburg Chicken, 1888, Lithograph

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The sleek black hamburg chicken a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this elegant 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of … Read more The sleek black hamburg chicken a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this elegant 19th century chromolithograph showcases a pair of black hamburg chickens, a refined breed known for its sleek black plumage, graceful build, and excellent egg laying capabilities. The print, titled zwarte hamburgers, originates from geïllustreerd hoenderboek, an illustrated poultry book published in 1888 by elsevier. Compiled by julius volschau and adapted for dutch readers by dr. A. C. Oudemans jzn., this book provided a comprehensive guide to poultry breeding, highlighting both utility and ornamental breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century. Hamburg chickens are among the oldest recorded poultry breeds, with historical references dating back to the 14th century. They were widely admired in the netherlands, germany, and england for their striking appearance and exceptional productivity. The black hamburg variety, as depicted in this lithograph, features a deep, glossy black plumage that reflects a greenish sheen in the light. The breed is known for its relatively small size, slender body, and high carriage, which gives it an air of elegance and agility. The rooster in this lithograph stands with an upright posture, showcasing its long flowing tail and proud demeanor, while the hen, slightly smaller, exhibits the same streamlined build with a calm yet alert expression. This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a sophisticated 19th century printing process that allowed for vibrantly detailed and richly colored illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by christian förster, a skilled animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithographs were produced by layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, ensuring depth and realism in the final print. The smooth rendering of the black hamburg’s plumage and the subtle interplay of light and shadow in this print highlight the craftsmanship involved in this artistic technique. Condition summary the print remains in very good condition, with well preserved colors and sharp details. Some minor age related toning and light foxing spots are visible, particularly along the edges, which is common in lithographs of this period. The paper remains stable with minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print enthusiasts and historical agricultural collectors. Framing tips to best preserve and display this lithograph, consider the following framing techniques - use acid free matting to prevent long term deterioration. A soft gray or light ivory mat will enhance the dark tones of the hamburg’s plumage - choose uv protective glass to safeguard the colors from fading due to light exposure - a wooden frame in deep walnut, dark mahogany, or classic black will complement the deep contrast of the print - float mounting can be used if the original paper edges are to be highlighted, adding a historical and museum quality presentation this lithograph is an exceptional example of 19th century poultry illustration, capturing the elegance and practicality of one of the most refined and productive chicken breeds. Whether displayed in a farmhouse, study, or antique print collection, it remains a timeless and historically significant piece of agricultural art. See less