Selby, Ornithological Study: Seasonal Plumage of the Sanderling, 1826, Print

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Large original antique print with two illustrations of birds, which are finely detailed and colored, from a series of ornithological … Read more Large original antique print with two illustrations of birds, which are finely detailed and colored, from a series of ornithological studies. The print is engraved with the signature of Selby. This print is from the "Illustrations of British Ornithology." : This refined colored etching showcases the Sanderling, a small wading bird, captured in meticulous detail by Prideaux John Selby. Plate XXXII from his seminal work, "Illustrations of British Ornithology," presents two states of the Sanderling. The top illustration reveals the bird in its summer plumage, a rich pattern of browns and rufous hues, indicative of its breeding attire. The bottom image contrasts this with the winter plumage, where the bird adopts a more subdued appearance with pale grey and white feathers. Both images depict the bird in profile, standing on earthy ground, highlighting the changes in appearance that the Sanderling undergoes with the seasons. 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