Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Jaguar & Cougar, 1816, Lithograph

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Antique Jaguar & Cougar Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This dramatic early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the celebrated Swiss … Read more Antique Jaguar & Cougar Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This dramatic early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the celebrated Swiss natural history artist Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts two iconic American wild cats: the jaguar (“Felis Onca”) and the cougar (“Felis Concolor”). Produced in 1816, the print combines scientific observation with a highly decorative and almost painterly composition, characteristic of the finest European zoological illustration of the Romantic period. The upper jaguar is shown crouched upon a rocky outcrop with captured prey, its richly spotted coat rendered in remarkable detail and warm natural coloration. Below, the elegant cougar stretches across the foreground in a poised and watchful stance. The mountainous landscape, rocky terrain, and delicate vegetation create a dynamic wilderness setting that gives the composition considerable atmosphere and movement. Karl Joseph Brodtmann was among the pioneering masters of natural history lithography in Europe. His works are admired for their refined draftsmanship, scientific precision, and exceptional hand coloring. Produced during the early development of lithographic printing, Brodtmann’s zoological plates are increasingly sought after by collectors of natural history, safari-themed interiors, and cabinet-of-curiosities material. Among Brodtmann’s animal subjects, feline compositions are especially desirable due to their strong decorative appeal and luxurious visual character. This example possesses remarkable wall presence, combining the dramatic spotted coat of the jaguar with the sleek elegance of the cougar. The warm earth tones, rocky landscape, and theatrical composition make the print particularly suitable for sophisticated interiors. This lithograph works exceptionally well in gentleman’s clubs, safari-inspired interiors, mountain lodge settings, luxury studies, dark academia spaces, eclectic collector interiors, and curated gallery walls. Professionally framed, the piece takes on the appearance of a museum-quality decorative object with strong visual impact. The visual presentation matters enormously with this piece. Framed in dark walnut with wide oatmeal matting, the lithograph gains warmth, depth, and a refined scholarly appearance. Black lacquer or subtly gilt frames also complement the dramatic natural history subject beautifully. The print is an original antique lithograph from 1816, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale with the original. Condition report: Good antique condition with age-related toning, scattered light foxing, and minor wear consistent with age. Original hand coloring remains attractive and well preserved. Framing tips: This lithograph displays exceptionally well in dark walnut, black lacquer, or lightly gilt frames paired with a wide ivory or oatmeal mat. Its dramatic zoological subject and warm natural palette make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, safari-inspired interiors, gentleman’s clubs, mountain lodge settings, or sophisticated gallery walls. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1816 See less