The Silver-Laced Bantam - A 19th Century Poultry Lithograph, 1888

Details

Description

The silver-laced bantam - a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this finely detailed 19th-century chromolithograph captures a lively group of … Read more The silver-laced bantam - a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this finely detailed 19th-century chromolithograph captures a lively group of silver-laced bantams, an elegant and ornamental breed prized for its intricate feather patterning and refined stature. The print, titled zilverlaken bantams, 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 an extensive guide to poultry breeding, featuring both productive and decorative breeds cherished by farmers and enthusiasts alike. Silver-laced bantams, often linked to the sebright breed, are among the most striking poultry varieties due to their exquisite plumage. Each feather is delicately edged in black, creating a laced effect over the bird's white and silver body. This contrast gives the birds a shimmering, almost metallic appearance. Unlike many poultry breeds, sebright bantams were developed purely for their ornamental value rather than for egg or meat production. Their small size, upright stance, and distinctive wing carriage make them one of the most admired and sought-after exhibition breeds. In this lithograph, the rooster is depicted standing confidently on a wooden barrel, his wings neatly folded and tail feathers elegantly curved. Surrounding him are several hens, some foraging on the barn floor while others explore the open barn entrance. The rustic background, featuring a thatched roof, farm tools, and burlap sacks, adds to the scene’s charm and authenticity, giving insight into traditional 19th-century farmyard life. This lithograph was created using the chromolithography technique, a highly refined 19th-century printing method that allowed for rich, multi-layered color printing. Each shade was applied with a separate stone plate, a labor-intensive process requiring exceptional precision. The result is a highly detailed and vibrant image that captures the intricacy of the birds' feather patterning with remarkable clarity. The artwork is based on an original drawing by christian förster, a noted animal illustrator of the period. Condition summary the print is in good condition, with well-preserved colors and fine detail. Some light foxing and minor discoloration are visible along the edges, a common trait in antique lithographs of this age. The paper remains stable, with no significant tears or damage, making this a valuable addition to any collection of antique poultry prints or historical agricultural artwork. Framing tips to best preserve and display this lithograph, consider the following framing techniques - use acid-free matting to prevent long-term deterioration. A neutral gray or soft silver mat will complement the silver-laced plumage - opt for uv-protective glass to prevent fading and preserve the intricate details of the print - a classic dark wood frame, such as walnut or ebony, will provide an elegant contrast to the delicate white and silver tones of the birds - float mounting can be used if the original paper edges and margins are to be highlighted, adding a museum-quality effect this lithograph is an exceptional representation of 19th-century poultry illustration, capturing the refined beauty of one of the most visually striking bantam breeds. Whether displayed in a study, library, or antique print collection, it remains a timeless and historically significant piece of agricultural art. See less