The Enchanting Japanese Silkie Chicken, 1888, Print

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The enchanting japanese silkie chicken a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this exquisite 19th-century chromolithograph showcases a pair of japanese … Read more The enchanting japanese silkie chicken a rare 19th century poultry lithograph this exquisite 19th-century chromolithograph showcases a pair of japanese silkie chickens, a breed known for its distinctive soft, fur-like plumage and unique physical traits. The print, titled japansche zijdehoenders, 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 a detailed study of poultry breeding, featuring both practical and ornamental breeds that were highly valued in the 19th century. Silkie chickens have been prized for centuries, particularly in asia, where they are believed to have originated. Marco polo is said to have described a bird with the characteristics of the silkie during his travels in china in the 13th century. Their most striking feature is their soft, silky plumage, which lacks the structure of normal feathers, giving them a fluffy appearance. Another defining trait is their black or dark blue skin and bones, along with five toes instead of the usual four found in most chicken breeds. Their gentle temperament makes them a favorite among poultry keepers, and they are still widely bred today for ornamental and pet purposes. In this lithograph, the rooster stands tall with an elegant posture, his flowing tail feathers cascading behind him, while the hen presents a rounder, more compact form with an unmistakable crest of fluffy feathers atop her head. Their deep black facial features, including their comb and wattles, provide a stark contrast to their brilliant white plumage. The background setting in a rustic barnyard adds warmth and authenticity to the composition, making this print a true historical representation of the breed. This lithograph was created using chromolithography, a highly advanced 19th-century printing process that allowed for vibrant, multi-colored illustrations. The artwork is based on an original drawing by christian förster, a skilled animal illustrator of the time. Chromolithography involved layering multiple colors, each applied with a separate stone plate, to achieve depth, shading, and fine detail. The rendering of the silkies' unique feather texture and the subtle interplay of light and shadow in this lithograph highlights the artistry involved in this printing technique. Condition summary the print remains in very good condition, with rich and well-preserved colors. Some minor age-related toning and light foxing are visible along the edges, which is common in lithographs from this period. The paper is stable with minimal signs of wear, making this an excellent collectible piece for antique poultry print enthusiasts and historical agricultural collectors. Framing tips to best preserve and display this lithograph, consider the following framing techniques - use acid-free matting to prevent long-term deterioration. A soft cream or muted gray mat will complement the silkies' unique feather texture and white plumage - choose uv-protective glass to safeguard the colors from fading due to light exposure - a wooden frame in dark walnut, ebony, or antique gold will enhance the contrast between the soft plumage and the deep black facial features of the birds - float mounting can be used if the original paper edges are to be highlighted, adding a historical and museum-quality presentation this lithograph is an exceptional example of 19th-century poultry illustration, capturing the beauty and intrigue of one of the most unique chicken breeds in history. Whether displayed in a farmhouse, study, or antique print collection, it remains a timeless and historically significant piece of agricultural art. See less