Scandinavian Bird Charts of Goldeneye Ducks, 1929, Prints, Set of 3

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Antique scandinavian bird lithographs, goldeneye ducks, svenska fåglar 1929 this elegant set of three scandinavian ornithological lithographs depicts the common … Read more Antique scandinavian bird lithographs, goldeneye ducks, svenska fåglar 1929 this elegant set of three scandinavian ornithological lithographs depicts the common goldeneye duck (bucephala clangula), presented in carefully observed naturalistic poses typical of early twentieth-century nordic wildlife illustration. The prints originate from the distinguished swedish natural history publication svenska fåglar efter naturen och på sten ritade, issued in sweden in 1929 by the publisher a. Börtzells. The title of the series translates roughly as “swedish birds drawn from nature and lithographed on stone,” reflecting the scientific accuracy and artistic discipline that characterize the work. The goldeneye, a striking northern diving duck known for its bright yellow eye and distinctive white head markings, is shown here in three different plumage variations. One plate illustrates the adult male with his bold black-and-white coloration and characteristic rounded white cheek patch. Another plate shows the female, whose more subdued brown head and grey body reflect the species’ natural sexual dimorphism. The third print depicts another plumage state, providing a visual study of the species useful for both scientific identification and decorative presentation. These images represent a refined continuation of the scandinavian natural history tradition established in the nineteenth century by artists such as the wright brothers in finland and sweden. Nordic bird illustration is renowned for its balance between scientific precision and aesthetic restraint. In these plates, the birds are depicted standing calmly on small natural rock settings against soft neutral backgrounds, allowing the form, feather structure, and subtle coloration of the species to be appreciated without distraction. The result is both educational and visually harmonious, making the prints particularly suitable for interior decoration. The lithographs were printed in color during the lithographic process itself rather than hand colored afterwards. This method allowed the printers to achieve delicate tonal gradations and consistent coloration across the edition while maintaining the crisp detail characteristic of high-quality stone lithography. The subtle cream paper and restrained palette reflect the understated elegance often associated with scandinavian design. Today, prints from svenska fåglar are admired both by collectors of ornithological illustration and by interior designers seeking sophisticated natural history imagery. A small set such as this works beautifully when framed together, creating a cohesive wall display that combines scientific heritage with calm nordic aesthetic qualities. The prints are offered unframed. Condition report: the lithographs remain in very good condition for their age with gentle age toning to the paper and minor edge wear consistent with prints that were once bound in a portfolio or book. The images remain bright and clear. No significant tears or losses observed. Framing tips: these prints frame exceptionally well as a horizontal trio or as a vertical column of three. A thin walnut or light oak frame combined with a generous ivory or warm off-white mat enhances the scandinavian character of the artwork and allows the birds’ natural colors to stand out. For modern interiors, a simple museum-style frame with wide mat margins works particularly well. Keywords: antique bird print, scandinavian bird lithograph, swedish ornithology print, svenska fåglar, bucephala clangula, common goldeneye, goldeneye duck, whistler duck, diving duck illustration, nordic wildlife art, swedish natural history print, duck lithograph, waterfowl print, ornithological plate, scandinavian nature illustration, vintage bird wall art, swedish bird study, wildlife lithograph set technique: color lithograph maker: svenska fåglar series, a. Börtzells, sweden, 1929 See less