Prêtre, Crested Woodpecker, 1808, Engraving

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Title: Rare 19th-Century Hand-Colored Engraving of a Crested Woodpecker – Exotic Ornithological Print : This exquisite hand-colored engraving, titled "Oxyrhynque … Read more Title: Rare 19th-Century Hand-Colored Engraving of a Crested Woodpecker – Exotic Ornithological Print : This exquisite hand-colored engraving, titled "Oxyrhynque en feu, mâle," is an outstanding example of early 19th-century ornithological illustration. It follows the scientific work of the renowned Dutch naturalist Coenraad Jacob Temminck (1778–1858), a pivotal figure in zoology and ornithology. Temminck was instrumental in classifying many bird species and contributed extensively to early natural history publications. The sheet numbered 125, featuring the inscription 'Prêtre' in the lower left corner, originates from the esteemed work "Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux de Paradis et des Rolliers" (Natural History of Birds of Paradise and Rollers). This publication was a collaborative effort between the Dutch naturalist Coenraad Jacob Temminck and the French illustrator Jean-Gabriel Prêtre. The work was published in installments between 1806 and 1808. Jean-Gabriel Prêtre was responsible for the detailed illustrations, while Temminck provided the scientific s. The presence of 'Prêtre' on the sheet indicates his role as the illustrator of this particular plate. The print depicts a strikingly detailed woodpecker with vibrant green and yellow plumage, accentuated by a bold red crest. Perched on a finely engraved branch, the bird is meticulously rendered with precise feather patterns and naturalistic shading. The print also includes a small anatomical study of the bird’s beak, reinforcing the scientific approach typical of 19th-century natural history illustrations. Created using the copperplate engraving technique, this print was first etched into a metal plate, then inked and pressed onto paper. After printing, each copy was hand-colored with watercolors, giving it a unique vibrancy. This meticulous process ensured both artistic beauty and scientific accuracy, making such prints highly desirable among collectors, scholars, and enthusiasts of exotic wildlife. Ornithological engravings from this period were not just scientific records; they were also valued as decorative pieces, often displayed in grand libraries and natural history collections. This particular example retains its original charm and would be an excellent addition to any ornithology-themed collection or as a refined interior decoration. Condition: Very good condition with slight toning and minor foxing in the margins. Colors remain vivid and well-preserved. Matting and Framing Tips: A neutral archival mat will enhance the vibrancy of the bird’s plumage without distraction. A gold, dark wood, or black frame would highlight its historical elegance. To preserve the delicate hand-colored details, museum-quality glass is recommended. See less