Seligman, Der Blaue Reiher, Hand-Colored Engraving of the Blue Heron, 1770, Print

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Title: Der Blaue Reiher - Hand-Colored Engraving of the Blue Heron by Johann Michael Seligmann, 18th Century This beautiful hand-colored … Read more Title: Der Blaue Reiher - Hand-Colored Engraving of the Blue Heron by Johann Michael Seligmann, 18th Century This beautiful hand-colored engraving, titled 'Der Blaue Reiher', illustrates the Blue Heron (Ardea caerulea) in a striking side profile, showcasing its elegant plumage and slender form. This work is part of Johann Michael Seligmann’s esteemed *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vögel* (Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds), an important series that brought illustrations from leading naturalists, such as Mark Catesby, to a German-speaking audience in the 18th century. Seligmann’s engravings are celebrated for their combination of scientific accuracy and aesthetic appeal. This plate, numbered "Tab. LII," captures the heron’s vibrant blue hues, enhanced by meticulous hand-coloring, with fine details that highlight the texture of the feathers and the bird’s graceful posture. The background features subtle landscape elements, adding a sense of the heron’s natural habitat, and the French title, *Heron bleu*, emphasizes the print’s historical and scientific value. A perfect addition for collectors of antique ornithological prints or fans of 18th-century natural history art, this engraving exemplifies Seligmann’s commitment to merging artistic finesse with scientific documentation. His works remain highly prized among collectors, making this Blue Heron print a rare and desirable piece for any collection focused on vintage bird illustrations. See less