Selby, Seasonal Plumage of a Common Oystercatcher, 1826, Engraving

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Large original hand-colored antique ornithological print made by Selby and published around 1826. This engraving is an exquisite print from … Read more Large original hand-colored antique ornithological print made by Selby and published around 1826. This engraving is an exquisite print from Prideaux John Selby's "Illustrations of British Ornithology," showcasing the Common Oystercatcher in both its summer and winter plumages. The two birds are depicted with remarkable detail, emphasizing the striking color contrast in their feathers and the robust, orange-red bill that is characteristic of the species. : This plate from Selby's acclaimed collection portrays the Common Oystercatcher, a bird well-known for its vivid plumage and distinctive foraging habits along coastlines. On the left, the Oystercatcher is shown in its bold summer plumage, with deep black upperparts and clean white underparts, a stark visual that is both striking to the observer and functional for the bird's mating rituals. On the right, the winter plumage is represented, illustrating the subtle variations that occur with the change of seasons. The bird is engaged in a characteristic behavior—probing for shellfish, which reflects Selby’s attention to detail and commitment to illustrating birds within their natural habitats. The print is a testament to Selby's skill in capturing the essence of the species with scientific accuracy while producing a work of art that appeals to both ornithologists and art connoisseurs. 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