Prideaux John Selby, The Little Auk, A Life Seize Study Engraved in Seasonal Plumage, 1826, Print

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This print from "Illustrations of British Ornithology" by Prideaux John Selby features the Little Auk in both its summer and … Read more This print from "Illustrations of British Ornithology" by Prideaux John Selby features the Little Auk in both its summer and winter plumages. The illustration captures the distinctive plumage patterns of the Little Auk, which is a small seabird known for its robust build and preference for colder waters. : The plate exhibits the Little Auk, also known as the Dovekie, in dynamic postures: the first depiction is of the bird in flight, showcasing its summer plumage with prominent white facial markings against a dark body; the second shows the bird at rest, in its winter plumage, where it sports a more uniform dark coloration. Selby's artistry is evident in the meticulous rendering of the bird’s feather patterns and the careful use of color to distinguish between the seasonal changes. The contrasting poses also demonstrate the Little Auk's adaptability to its marine environment, capturing a moment of its life with realism and scientific accuracy. The print serves both as a valuable visual record for ornithologists and as a piece of artistry that bird enthusiasts and collectors can admire. The artist, Prideaux John Selby (1788–1867), was an English ornithologist, botanist, and artist renowned for his detailed and realistic illustrations of birds. His work "Illustrations of British Ornithology" was a significant contribution to scientific knowledge of British birds in the 19th century and is known for its accuracy and the beauty of its illustrations. Selby's works are an important part of the history of ornithological art and study. Prideaux John Selby is often ranked among the greatest avian illustrators, sharing the distinction with peers such as John James Audubon and John Gould. His illustrations were characterized by both ornithological precision and a sense of aesthetic grace, rendering each bird in its natural habitat with a focus on both scientific detail and visual charm. Mirroring Audubon's approach, Selby's renditions were notable for their life-sized portrayals. Selby's personal involvement in the etching process of his grand folio series set him apart, as he took on the intricate task of engraving many of the plates himself—a skill he learned from his brother-in-law, Admiral Robert Mitford. Mitford not only taught Selby the etching technique but also actively participated in creating the etchings for "Illustrations of British Ornithology." Christine E. Jackson, a scholar, highlighted the unique aspects of Selby's artistry, praising the refined and understated elegance of his plates—a stark contrast to the ornate Victorian style of John Gould. Jackson commended Selby for producing what were at the time the most life-like and dynamic representations of British birds, marking a significant departure from previous depictions that often appeared rigid and diminutive. This leap in the portrayal of birds, with its combination of life-sized, animated illustrations, represented a monumental step forward in the art of bird illustration. The paper's watermark, J. Whatman, indicates the paper manufacturer, which was a renowned English papermaking company known for high-quality drawing and writing papers. The dates 1822-28 suggest the period during which the paper was produced but the watermark show the year 1826. We have more bird prints of Selby online. See less