Ornithology Illustrations of Arctic & European Birds, 1890, Prints, Set of 6

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Antique chromolithographs of arctic and european birds – gulls, eiders, guillemots and sandgrouse, c.1890 a striking set of six antique … Read more Antique chromolithographs of arctic and european birds – gulls, eiders, guillemots and sandgrouse, c.1890 a striking set of six antique chromolithographs depicting arctic and european bird species in vivid coastal and landscape settings. Produced in the late 19th century, these plates combine scientific precision with decorative artistry, capturing the beauty and diversity of birdlife. The following species are represented: 1. Ross’s gull (rhodostethia rosea), sabine’s gull (xema sabini) and black-legged kittiwake (rissa tridactyla), shown in both summer and juvenile plumage on rocky shores. 2. Northern fulmar (fulmarus glacialis), a large seabird of the northern oceans, perched prominently on coastal rocks with others in flight. 3. Spectacled eider (somateria spectabilis) and common eider (somateria mollissima), a group along a rugged seashore in varied plumages. 4. Guillemots (uria lomvia, uria brünnichii, uria ringvia), three species of auks depicted together in their winter dress. 5. Guillemots (uria lomvia, uria brünnichii, uria ringvia) again shown in their breeding plumage with a chick in the surf. 6. Pallas’s sandgrouse (syrrhaptes paradoxus), an unusual and beautifully patterned ground bird from the eurasian steppes, shown in male, female and flock formation. Each plate is finely lithographed with naturalistic coloring and bears the artist’s signature or initials (“jk” or “ag”). These prints were produced as part of an ornithological series that sought to document european bird species with both scientific accuracy and aesthetic appeal. The richness of the chromolithographic process provides depth and subtle shading to feathers, landscapes, and skies, making them highly decorative as well as historically valuable. Condition report: good condition with strong colors. Minor age toning and occasional light handling marks in the margins. Plate marks visible, confirming authenticity. No tears or major blemishes. They are sold as an unframed set. Framing tips: for a cohesive wall display, frame the six plates in matching dark wood or black frames with ivory or pale cream matting. This will highlight the fine coloration and create a unified presentation. Gilt frames can lend a more formal, traditional appearance. Technique: chromolithograph maker: j.k. And a.g. (artists/engravers), c.1890, europe See less