Antique Loon Bird Lithographs with Arctic Loon & Red-Throated Loon, 1929, Set of 3

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Antique Loon Bird Lithographs Set of 3, Arctic Loon & Red-Throated Loon 1929 : This refined set of three Scandinavian … Read more Antique Loon Bird Lithographs Set of 3, Arctic Loon & Red-Throated Loon 1929 : This refined set of three Scandinavian ornithological lithographs illustrates two of the most iconic diving birds of the northern hemisphere: the Arctic Loon and the Red-throated Loon. The prints originate from the celebrated Swedish natural history publication Svenska Fåglar Efter Naturen Och På Sten Ritade, issued in Stockholm in 1929 by the publisher A. Börtzells. The series represents one of the most elegant twentieth-century Scandinavian ornithological works, combining scientific precision with the restrained aesthetic associated with Nordic natural history illustration. The set includes detailed depictions of the Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica), historically classified under the older scientific name Colymbus arcticus, shown in two plumage variations. One plate presents the bird resting on land, highlighting the striking geometric pattern of the breeding plumage with its bold black, white, and checkered mantle. A second plate shows the Arctic Loon swimming in water in transitional plumage, emphasizing the bird’s streamlined body and characteristic posture on the water. The third plate depicts the Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata), historically known as Colymbus stellatus. This species is easily recognizable by the distinctive reddish throat patch that appears during the breeding season. The artist carefully captures the subtle feather textures and the elegant, elongated form typical of loons, birds perfectly adapted for diving and fishing in cold northern lakes and coastal waters. Loons are among the most evocative birds of the Nordic and Arctic landscapes. Their haunting calls echo across remote lakes and fjords, and they have long symbolized the wild and untouched character of northern nature. In Scandinavian natural history illustration they are often portrayed with careful attention to plumage structure, posture, and anatomical detail, as seen in these finely balanced compositions. The plates were printed using high-quality color lithography, allowing for soft tonal transitions and remarkable clarity in the intricate feather patterns. Each print bears the Latin scientific name beneath the image together with Swedish vernacular captions, reflecting the educational and scientific purpose of the series. Displayed together, the three prints form a harmonious decorative grouping with strong visual rhythm between the black-and-white plumage patterns and the warm ivory tone of the paper. The set works beautifully in coastal interiors, Nordic-inspired spaces, studies, or natural history collections. These are original lithographs printed in color at the time of publication in 1929 and are not modern reproductions. Condition: Good condition for their age with gentle age toning to the paper and occasional minor spotting in the margins. The printed images remain clean and well preserved. Framing tips: These prints display beautifully with generous ivory mats and simple walnut or oak frames. They work well as a horizontal grouping of three or as part of a larger natural history gallery wall. Technique: Color lithographs Series: Svenska Fåglar Efter Naturen Och På Sten Ritade Maker: A. Börtzells, Stockholm, Sweden, 1929 See less