Pretre, Shrike Illustration, La Collurie Ardoisée, Handcolored Print, 1807

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This handcolored antique print, titled 'La Collurie ardoisée', depicts a species of shrike. The bird is rendered in a lifelike … Read more This handcolored antique print, titled 'La Collurie ardoisée', depicts a species of shrike. The bird is rendered in a lifelike stance, perched on a branch, its body profiled to the viewer with its head turned, gazing to the right. The shrike is illustrated with a meticulous attention to detail, showcasing its distinctive plumage pattern: the slate-gray of its head and back is offset by the white underparts and the striking black through the eye, which extends into a band towards the nape of the neck. The wings are marked with white and black, adding to the stark contrast of the overall coloration. The caption 'La Collurie ardoisée' and 'Lanius ardoisecus pl. 51' indicate the French common name and the plate number, suggesting it belongs to a larger series. Additionally, the names 'Pretre pinx', 'Langlois sculp.', and 'Bouquet' signify the artist, the engraver, and the colorist or printer respectively, connecting this print to the book 'Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux de l'Amerique Septentrionale' by Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot, dated circa 1807. Regarding its condition, the print shows signs of aging, including foxing throughout the paper, which is a testament to its historical value. The yellowing of the paper and the spotting do not obscure the image, which remains clear and vivid, reflecting the enduring quality of the printmaking and coloring techniques of the era. The corners and edges are slightly worn, yet the integrity of the print remains intact. This shrike illustration stands as a fine example of early 19th-century ornithological art, which aimed to present birds within the context of their natural environment. See less