Birds of Prey, Eagles & Falcons, 1890s, Chromolithographs, Set of 10

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Birds of Prey, Complete Set of 10 Chromolithographs – Eagles & Falcons c1890 This impressive and visually unified suite of … Read more Birds of Prey, Complete Set of 10 Chromolithographs – Eagles & Falcons c1890 This impressive and visually unified suite of ten large-format chromolithographs depicts some of the most powerful and iconic birds of prey: eagles, falcons, gyrfalcons, sea eagles, and related raptors, all rendered in dramatic alpine and coastal landscapes. Produced in Germany in the late 19th century, the set originates from a major scientific ornithological publication and represents the peak of chromolithographic bird illustration before the widespread use of photography. Each plate presents the species at near life scale, often showing multiple examples—adult and juvenile, male and female—allowing both scientific comparison and strong visual storytelling. The compositions are carefully balanced, with commanding central birds set against softly colored skies, mountain ranges, cliffs, and rocky outcrops. The palette is harmonious throughout the set, dominated by warm browns, ochres, greys, and soft blues, giving the group a refined and cohesive appearance when displayed together. Subjects in the set include golden eagles, imperial eagles, sea eagles, peregrine falcons, gyrfalcons, Eleonora’s falcon, and related species, making this an exceptionally complete raptor portfolio. The consistency of style, scale, and coloring across all ten plates makes this suite particularly attractive as a single decorative statement rather than as individual works. from an interior-design perspective, this set works exceptionally well in a study, library, lodge-style interior, or sophisticated office setting. Displayed as a grid, long horizontal run, or distributed across a room, the prints create a strong natural-history atmosphere with both scholarly and decorative appeal. For collectors, the survival of a full matching set is increasingly uncommon, as such works were often dispersed over time. The set is offered as a complete group of ten plates. Selling and displaying the suite intact preserves its original visual and historical coherence and offers a far greater impact than individual sheets. Complete Suite of 10 Plates — available as a set; individual plates may be released later. Condition report: Overall good condition for late 19th-century chromolithographs. All plates show light age toning to the margins, consistent with age. Occasional minor edge wear and faint handling marks, mostly confined to the margins and well outside the image areas. Colors remain strong and well preserved. Framing suggestions: These prints frame beautifully in dark walnut or ebonized wood frames with generous ivory or soft warm-white mats. A consistent frame and mat choice across all ten plates is strongly recommended to emphasize the unity of the set. Museum glass will enhance depth and protect the subtle tonal transitions in the skies and landscapes. Technique: Chromolithography Maker: German ornithological publication, late 19th century See less