Karl Joseph Brodtmannm, Ring-Tailed Lemur, 1816, Lithograph

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Antique Ring-Tailed Lemur Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This charming and highly decorative early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the … Read more Antique Ring-Tailed Lemur Lithograph by Karl Joseph Brodtmann, 1816 This charming and highly decorative early 19th-century hand-colored lithograph by the celebrated Swiss natural history artist Karl Joseph Brodtmann depicts two species of lemurs rendered with remarkable elegance and lively character. Produced in 1816, the print reflects the fascination with exotic animals and scientific discovery that characterized the Enlightenment and Romantic periods. The composition features the brown mongoose lemur (“Lemur fulvus”) perched gracefully upon a flowering branch alongside the ring-tailed lemur (“Lemur catta”), one of the most recognizable and visually striking primates in natural history illustration. The elegantly curved tails, expressive posture, and finely observed fur textures give the scene an almost theatrical vitality, while the rocky foreground and delicate vegetation add atmosphere without overwhelming the composition. Karl Joseph Brodtmann was among the pioneering masters of natural history lithography in Europe and remains admired for his refined combination of scientific accuracy and decorative sophistication. His works possess a painterly quality rarely encountered in zoological illustration of the period, balancing scholarly precision with considerable aesthetic charm. Lemur subjects are especially desirable within antique natural history due to their rarity, exotic appeal, and instantly recognizable forms. The ringed tail of the “Lemur catta” creates dramatic visual movement within the composition and gives the print exceptional decorative presence. The warm coloration of soft browns, greys, muted greens, and cream paper tones makes the lithograph particularly attractive once professionally framed. This print works exceptionally well in libraries, studies, eclectic interiors, Wunderkammer displays, safari-inspired spaces, gentleman’s clubs, boutique hotel interiors, dark academia rooms, and sophisticated gallery walls focused on exploration and natural history themes. The visual presentation matters enormously with this piece. Framed in dark walnut with wide oatmeal matting, the lithograph takes on a rich museum-quality appearance with warmth and depth. Black lacquer or lightly gilt frames also complement the exotic zoological subject beautifully while giving the composition a more contemporary gallery-like aesthetic. 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 foxing, and minor marginal 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 exotic zoological subject and warm natural palette make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, eclectic interiors, Wunderkammer displays, gentleman’s clubs, safari-inspired spaces, or sophisticated gallery walls. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Karl Joseph Brodtmann, Switzerland, 1816 See less